2005 Shirvington Shiraz

The dense, chewy, rich, deeply-colored 2005 Shiraz is a full-bodied, ripe, intense wine, but does not reveal quite the same thrilling level of quality as the Cabernet. Nevertheless, it is no wimpy wine, boasting 16% alcohol as well as stunning richness and length. Drink it over the next 7-8 years. Owners Paul and Lynn Shirvington have replaced winemakers Sarah and Sparky Marquis with Kim Johnston, who appears to be following in the same footsteps, producing bigger than life, bold, rich, but beautifully linear and precise wines. Both of these cuvees are barrel-fermented and aged in 75-85% new oak, primarily American. The vines are young, which makes the quality even more remarkable. Importer: Dan Philips, The Grateful Palate, Oxnard, CA; tel. (888) 472-5283