Release Date: February 4, 2012

PLUNKETT FOWLES STONE DWELLERS SHIRAZ 2008
Strathbogie Ranges, Victoria, Australia
265967 (XD) 750 mL $19.95

TASTING NOTE: Matured in 40% American and 60% French new oak with part maturation in older hogsheads, the 2008 Stone Dwellers Shiraz gives a very deep purple-black color and intensely peppery aromas over notes of crushed blackberries and mulberries, cinnamon stick and licorice. Very full bodied and concentrated, it has a solid structure of very crisp acid and firm, tight-knit tannins supporting the generous berry and spice flavors. The long finish imparts a lingering suggestion of vanilla and smoked meat. Drink this one now to 2017.

Score: 92 (Lisa Perrotti-Brown, MW, eroberparker.com, June 2011)

 

LEONE DE CASTRIS ROSSO RISERVA SALICE SALENTINO 2007
DOC, Puglia, Italy
597534 (XD) 750 mL $17.95

TASTING NOTE: The 2007 Salice Salentino Riserva 50th Vendemmia is big, powerful and super intense. Ripe black fruits, licorice, smoke, ash and game come through in this assertive Salice Salentino. Silky tannins round out the finish. As the name states, the 50th Vendemmia celebrates the estate's 50th harvest. The Riserva is 90% Negroamaro and 10% Malvasia Nera, aged in neutral French oak. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2022.

Score: 91 (Antonio Galloni, eroberparker.com, June 2011)