Raising the bar is the 2005 Shiraz “The Election,” a wine aged in French (70% new) and American oak. Purple/black in color, it emits a powerful perfume of pain grille, smoked meat, bacon, pencil lead, blueberry, and blackberry liqueur. It has a deep core of spicy black fruits, superb balance, and immense promise. It merits 8-10 years of additional cellaring and will drink well through 2030. The Magpie Estate wines are made by Rolf Binder.Importer: Michael Opdahl, Joshua Tree Imports, Duarte, CA; tel. (626) 358-6600