2004 Marquis Phillips ROOGLE RED (80% Shiraz 20% Cabernet) (South Australia)

Another ridiculous value from Australia, this wine has tons of character for the money.

Dark, saturated black ruby color. In-your-face nose of cassis, blackberry liqueur, fragrant wood smoke, and graphite. Rich, dense, full-bodied flavors: blackberry extract, scorched earth, pencil lead, minerals. Long finish. No tannin left, to speak of. Drink over the next year for maximum intensity fruit. Superb. 90. $10.65 at Spec's on Richmond.