The 2006 Clarry’s Red is a blend of 65% Grenache and 35% Shiraz from vines averaging 31 years of age with yields of 2.25 tons per acre. It spent 10 months in used French and American oak. Dark ruby-colored, it exhibits aromas of earth, mineral, forest floor, black cherry, and blueberry. Medium-bodied, it delivers ample, spicy red fruit flavors in a rustic style, with some ripe tannin holding things together. Drink it over the next 3-4 years with bistro cuisine. Troy Kalleske is owner/winemaker of his namesake winery. The family owns 400 acres, 200 cultivated, in the acclaimed Greenock region of Barossa where conditions are extreme and the vines are stressed. Much of their holdings are in older vines.Importer: Dan Philips, The Grateful Palate, Oxnard, CA; www.kalleske.com; Also tasted: 2006 Semillon Late Harvest” Lorraine” (83), 2005 JMK Shiraz VP (78)

Showing a flashy, extroverted personality, Kalleske’s blend of 80% Grenache and 20% Shiraz shows hints of coffee and toast, but the focus here is on forward fruit. Lush cherry, peach and apricot flavors end on notes of white pepper and spice. Drink now–2010.——J.C.(11/1/2007)—— 91