The impressive, well-endowed 2002 Shiraz The McRae Wood possesses smoky bacon fat characteristics intermixed with notions of cassis, black currants, new saddle leather, and earth. With superb fruit, a great texture, and a long, rich, concentrated, smooth finish, it will provide pleasure over the next 10-12 years. Readers who are wondering about Jim Barry’s flagship offering, the Shiraz Armagh, should refer to issue #155, where both the 2001 and 2002 received fabulous reviews. I have not yet tasted the unreleased 2003 The Armagh. However, I did recently taste the 1989 Shiraz The Armagh, and rated it 93 points. It is a magnificent wine still on the upside of its potential. These cuvees can easily last 20-25 years. Importer: Negociants, USA, Napa CA; tel. (707) 259-0993