The purple-colored 2006 Shiraz Bella’s Garden from Barossa Valley offers a brooding bouquet of wood smoke, pepper, damp earth, blueberry, and licorice. This leads to a full-bodied, layered Shiraz with excellent grip and power. Give it 2-3 years of additional cellaring and drink it from 2011 to 2022. Two Hands is a negociant operation run impeccably by Michael Twelftree. It reflects the best that can be sourced from all over South Australia. The packaging provides some serious design competition to the Dan Philips R Wine portfolio. The Garden Series is Shiraz sourced from a wide range of South Australia vineyards and line-priced at $60. Importer: Terlato Wines International, Lake Bluff, IL; www.twohandswines.com

Firm in texture, this is balanced with a vibrant core of red cherry, raspberry and spice flavors that persist on the chewy finish, expanding to show hints of dark chocolate and sweet spices. Best from 2010 through 2016. 5,400 cases imported. -HS

A big (15.6% alcohol) wine, the 2006 Bella’s Garden nevertheless comes across as balanced and drinkable in its youth, marrying a rich, creamy texture with mixed berry fruit and hints of mint and vanilla. Avoids any cooked character, finishing long and fresh. Drink now–2015.——J.C.(9/1/2008)—— 91