There is a distinct similarity between the pleasure one receives on entering a well-stocked book store and going into a fine wine shop, for in both instances, one takes pleasure in perusing the titles or, the labels, or perhaps handling the books or the bottles, and finally of making our decisions and returning home with something that will provide great pleasure.

Chevrat Hakerem is importing wines from Australia and the U.S., many of which are of high quality and represent good value for the money. To locate the nearest store carrying these wines, phone (03) 962-7070.

From Australia

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Peter Lehmann, Shiraz, Stonewell, 2000: A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Merlot. Dark purple, medium- to full-bodied, with firm, mouth-coating tannins that yield to reveal black cherry, purple plum and currant fruits, supported nicely by generous hints of dark chocolate and a light vanilla undertone that runs through to the long finish. Luxurious and generous. Drink now-2012. NIS 306. Score 92.

Peter Lehmann, Shiraz, Barossa, 2002: Dark garnet, medium-bodied, with soft, well-integrating tannins and a hint of spicy wood. Black currants, blackberries and earthy minerals and, on the long finish, nice hints of mocha and dark chocolate. Drink now-2010. NIS 95. Score 91.

Peter Lehmann, Clancy's, Barossa, 2003: Dark purple, full-bodied, with firm tannins in fine balance with wood and fruits. This blend of Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot opens with spicy wood and red cherries, those yielding to plum, blackberry and currant fruits, those opening to generous hints of citrus peel and minty chocolate. Approachable now, best 2008-2012, perhaps longer. NIS 100. Score 90.

Peter Lehmann, Shiraz, The Future, Barossa, 2003: Inky purple, full-bodied, with soft tannins integrating nicely and fine balance between those and a moderate spicy oak overlay. Opens to reveal raspberries, black cherries and currants, those leading to a moderately long, spicy finish. Drink now-2010.NIS 130. Score 89.

Peter Lehmann, Riesling, Eden Valley, Barossa, 2004: Straw-colored, medium-bodied, with generous acidity backing up fresh citrus, pineapple and green apple fruits. In the background appealing minerals and, on the finish, a light oily hint. Drink now-2010. NIS 78. Score 88.

Peter Lehmann, Chardonnay, Barossa, 2004: Golden straw, with a sprinkling of new wood and fresh balancing acidity showing off guava, citrus and pineapple aromas and flavors. Drink now. NIS 80. Score 87.

Peter Lehmann, GSM, Barossa, 2003: The by now traditional Australian blend of Grenache, Shiraz and Mourvedre, this version medium-bodied, with soft tannins and a generous array of raspberries, black cherry and peppery aromas and flavors. Soft, round and moderately long. Drink now-2008. NIS 84. Score 87.

From the U.S.

Northstar, Merlot, Columbia Valley, Washington, 2001: Dark, earthy and with a tantalizing musky overtone, this softly tannic Merlot offers a spicy array of berries, cherries, cassis and black olives, all with a hint of sweetness on the long finish. Drink now-2010. NIS 357. Score 90.

Columbia Crest, Merlot, Grand Estates, Columbia Valley, Washington, 2003: Garnet to purple in color, medium-bodied, with an appealing earthy hint that highlights spicy berry, plum and black cherry fruits. Long, round and generous. Drink now-2010. NIS 70. Score 90.

Hess Collection, Zinfandel, Artezin, Mendocino, Amador and, Sonoma Counties, California, 2004: Dark garnet, medium- to full-bodied, with firm tannins integrating nicely and showing appealing plum, currant and black cherry fruits along with spicy oak. A bit firm now but given time will show soft and round. Drink now-2010. NIS 205. Score 88.

Hess Collection, Cabernet Sauvignon, Mt. Veeder, Napa, 2003: Dark garnet to purple, concentrated and full-bodied, with mouth-coating tannins and a generous array of currants, black and red berries, supported nicely by a nice hint of strong cappuccino coffee. Drink now-2011. NIS 80. Score 88.