The 2008 The Stump Jump Shiraz was aged in seasoned French and American oak. It displays an enticing nose of spice box, lavender, and blueberry. Medium to full-bodied, ripe and flavorful, this balanced effort deliver a lot of wine for the money. The d’Arenberg portfolio is loaded with values. The winery works with over 140 growers to fashion their superb blends. For the 2008 vintage, the entry-level The Stump Jump series has been expanded. Importer: Old Bridge Cellars, Napa, CA; www.oldbridgecellars.com

Ripe and open-textured, this is impressive for the way it packs in the cherry, blackberry and raspberry flavors and keeps its foot on the gas pedal through the mineral-inflected finish. Drink now through 2018. 5,000 cases imported.??–HS??Region: Australia / McLaren Vale Select to Add

Fine as an entry-level quaffer, this medium-bodied red blends aromas of maple syrup and dill with red-berry and herb flavors. Turns tart on the finish.——J.C.(2/1/2010)—— 84