Rubicon 2000, Meerlust, Stellenbosch; Naughton's Flight, 2003 Shiraz, Paarl; and Joubert-Tradauw Barrell Fermented Chardonnay 2003, Tradouw Valley.
Rubicon 2000, Meerlust, Stellenbosch, €29.49 Attractive blackberry and tobacco notes, though still quite restrained. In the mouth it is rich but refined, with good balance and great length. A class act. Vaughan Johnston, Temple Bar; selected O'Briens; McCabes, Blackrock; Redmonds, Ranelagh; the Vintry, Rathgar; Thomas's Deli, Foxrock; Kingdom Wines, Kerry; Garvey's SuperValu, Dingle; Centra, Kenmare.
Naughton's Flight, 2003 Shiraz, Paarl, €19.95 Made by Kilkenny man Frankie Naughton, this is full of gorgeous black fruit with hints of vanilla, a silky texture, well-integrated oak and an intense, mildly spiced finish. Mitchell & Son, Dublin.
Joubert-Tradauw Barrell Fermented Chardonnay 2003, Tradouw Valley, €13.99 Buttery, rich, enchanting Burgundy-style Chardonnay at a fraction of the price. This accomplished wine is packed with citrus, honey, and caramel flavours. Oddbins.