Even De Bortoli’s less expensive wines often show decent structure; this wine’s firm tannins frame somewhat simple grape and blueberry fruit while calling for a fatty burger to help bring them into balance. Picks up a hint of coffee on the finish.——J.C.(4/1/2009)—— 84

The 2006 Shiraz Vat 8 is dark ruby/purple-colored with a spice box and blueberry-accented bouquet. This tasty, straightforward wine has good grip and ample ripe fruit. Drink it over the next 1-2 years.The wines are discussed in the order in which they were presented by Stephen Webber, manager and winemaker of De Bortoli Wines.Importer: De Bortoli Wines USA, Hoboken, NJ; tel. (201) 714-9700