If the lavish quantities of toasty new French oak become better integrated in the 1997 Maleea (55% Cabernet Sauvignon and 45% Shiraz), this wine will easily merit its 93 point score. A sensationally rich, impressively-structured effort, it possesses a black/purple color, the aforementioned heavy overlay of toasty new oak, gorgeous blueberry, blackberry, and cassis flavors, a ton of pain grille and vanillin-like scents, full body, and a rich, concentrated finish with impressive levels of sweet fruit. It still tastes like a barrel sample, so give it 2-4 years of cellaring. It should age nicely for two decades. Importer: Dan Philips, The Grateful Palate, Oxnard, CA; tel. (888) 472-5283

Bright and tight, sharp in texture, with zingy acidity and fine tannins to support the wide-open berry, currant and spice flavors, hinting at chocolate on the polished finish. Drink now through 2007. 250 cases made.??–HS??Region: Australia / Coonawarra Select to Add