The 2004 Shiraz Selkirk reveals a more purple hue as well as more opulence and elegance than the 2003. The two vintages are more similar than dissimilar, and I preferred the aromatics of the 2004, but the texture, richness, and density of the 2003. Drink the 2004 over the next 4-6 years. Importer: Jane Delaney, The Ravensvale Group, Greenwich, CT; tel. (800) 580-0052

Currently, the 2004 Shiraz/Cabernet Sauvignon BOV (75% Shiraz and 25% Cabernet) reveals a bit too much oak (it spent 20 months in American and French wood). However, it possesses medium to full body, excellent fruit, and plenty of spice and earth characteristics. Give it a few more months of bottle age, and drink it over the following 5-6 years. Importer: Jane Delaney, The Ravensvale Group, Greenwich, CT; tel. (800) 580-0052