The 2005 Shiraz “Autograph” spent 17 months in 60% new American oak. The wine is a glass-coating purple with room-filling aromas of cedar, mocha, cocoa, blueberry, and black currant liqueur. This leads to a medium to full-bodied, opulent wine with layers of ripe black and blue fruits, soft tannins, and excellent length. Allow 4-6 years of evolution in the cellar and drink this well-made Shiraz through 2025. Founded in 1973, the winery is now run by Charles Cimicky who succeeded his father at the helm. Charles Cimicky has established a reputation for both high quality and excellent values.Importer: Ben Hammerschlag, Epicurean Wines, Seattle, WA; tel. (206) 923-1376

With its bright acidity, Cimicky’s 2005 Autograph stands out a bit from the pack of Barossa Shiraz. Blueberry-blackberry fruit and peppery spice is underlined by vibrant acids, which give this wine a more reined-in feel than many of its counterparts. Despite supple tannins, it comes across as firm on the finish, where it picks up hints of caramel or maple syrup.——J.C.(11/1/2007)—— 90