Mitolo Jester 2007

• Area: Austrailia, Mclaren Vale
• Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Alcohol: 14.5%
• Rating: Black 93 Dilettante 93

Description: The Italian wine maker Mitolo, goes down under and the result is simply great. 20% of the fruit is sun-dried, giving this wine an Amarone flair. Plums, flowers, spice, road tar and a hint of eucalyptus makes for an enticing nose. Concentrated and a little clingy on the palate, this wine is bold without being belligerent. The oh so lively attack is loaded with bright red candied fruits. Lower notes of cherry wood and raisin balance the whole thing out nicely. The extra dry finish has a black licorice twist. Aptly named and so yummy. We'll be sure to pick up a few more bottles. Benefits from a little air. Decanting not required.

Price: $17

The Black Chook 2007

• Area: Australia, South
• Grape: 95% Shiraz, 5% Viognier
• Alcohol: 15%
• Rating: Black 87 Dilettante 87
  
  Description: Violets, black pepper, vanilla and cola make up the nose. The attack is unimpressive. This wine falls mainly in the mid to high note range with flavors of candied cherry, violets, vanilla and a hint of cola. The finish is dry with a black current lift. Decant 20 minutes.
  
  Price: $15

Tintara Shiraz 2005

• Area: Australia, McLaren Vale
  
• Grape: Syrah
• Alcohol: 14%
• Rating: Black 87 Dilettante 88 Nwjr 90

Description: Smells of smoke, spice, oak and plums. Chocolaty smooth in the mouth, it's supported by flavors of vanilla, spice and fruit. On the finish it picks up speed with rich tannins and ends with a chocolate kiss. Nice. The winery recommends decanting this for at least an hour.

Price: $14