The exceptional 1996 Shiraz/Cabernet Sauvignon Mountain Blue (90% Shiraz and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon) exhibits a thick-looking opaque purple color. The nose reveals toasty vanilla scents intermixed with blackberry jam and creme de cassis. Low acidity, and a rich, glycerin-imbued, lush texture are hedonistic and alluring. This jammy, thick, juicy, succulent wine should drink well for 7-8 years. Importer: Rosemount Estates, Sonoma, CA; tel. (707) 996-4504

Rosemount Estate must be one of the world's leading wineries for producing a bevy of delicious wines at fair prices. The 1996 Shiraz (65%)/ Cabernet Sauvignon (35%) is vibrant and delicious. Bursting with plum and red and blackberry-like flavors, this soft, medium-bodied, gorgeously fruity, round, personality-filled dry red wine can be served slightly chilled or at room temperature. One of the best red wine values in the marketplace, it is meant to be drunk young, so readers should not buy more than they plan to drink over the next 1-2 years. Those wines priced less the $10 are excellent values. Importer: Rosemount Wines, Inc., Sonoma, CA; tel. (707) 996-4504

Bursting with fruit, here's a lively, generous, amazingly supple Shiraz--a mouthful of blackberry, anise, chocolate and spice notes that remain rich and vibrant through the finish. Approachable now, at its best from 2000. From a trusted winery, and reasonably priced. 150,000 cases made.??–HS??Region: Australia / South Eastern Australia Select to Add