Petaluma 1999 Bridgewater Mill Shiraz (Australia)

Country: Australia / Bridgewater Mill
Variety: Shiraz Australia Other
Winery: Petaluma / Australia

Unlike many an Australian Shiraz, this one sees only French oak barrels for aging. The result is a dense, blueberry-filled wine, supported by hints of toast and espresso. It’s full-bodied but not tiring to drink, thanks to an enlivening burst of black pepper on the finish. Best Buy. —J.C.