The opaque purple-colored 1996 Shiraz displays a distinctive blackberry, cassis, and minty-scented nose with tar, licorice, and spicy notes. Medium to full-bodied, and undeniably Australian in its exuberance and flamboyant style, this rich, chunky Shiraz should drink well for a decade or more. If it had possessed slightly more complexity and breadth of flavor, it would have merited an outstanding rating. Tim Adams' red wines are all boldly-styled, fleshy, large-scaled offerings that are best purchased by those who desire plenty of flavor. Tim Adams continues to provide an impressive array of wine from old, dry-farmed vineyards in the Clare Valley, about 65 miles from Adelaide.

Crisp and racy, with pretty currant and mint flavors that remind more of Cabernet than Shiraz, but what the hey, it's tasty. Drink now through 2003. 2,700 cases made.??–HS??Region: Australia / Clare Valley Select to Add