The 2006 Shiraz “Savitar” was aged in 100% new oak, predominantly French. Purple-colored, the aromatics are a bit reticent initially, but soon scents of toasty oak, tar, licorice, scorched earth, and blueberry emerge. This leads to a wine which is more structured and less opulent than its peers. It will evolve for a minimum of 8-10 years and drink well through 2040. As a point of reference, the 2002 Savitar (rated 95) was presented. It is considerably more developed aromatically but still has a significant distance to travel prior to reaching its peak. Mitolo, which began operations in 1999, is a partnership of the Mitolo family and winemaker Ben Glaetzer. The focus is on McLaren Vale fruit from Willunga, the most southern part of the district. All of the wines below are from the 2006 vintage which Glaetzer characterizes as “?a mild growing season with no problems. It ranks with 2002 as my favorite vintage”. Importer: Vintus LLC, Pleasantville, NY; www.mitolowines.com.au

Firm in texture, with lively blueberry and wild blackberry flavors poking through a layer of fine-grained tannins, finishing with real refinement. Best after 2009. 350 cases imported.??–HS??Region: Australia / McLaren Vale Select to Add

The color is dark and dense and so are the aromas, which show plenty of vanilla oak and mulberry fruit. As you might expect from winemaker Ben Glaetzer and the Mitolo family, this is a full-bodied Shiraz, albeit not quite as lush and riveting as the 2005 version. The tannins this year are soft, the acids a bit on the tart side, giving the fruit a crisp edge. Probable drinking window: 2010–2020.——J.C.(9/1/2008)—— 90