New World, old wine

Australia's wines are classified as "New World'' -- even though some of the vines have been here more than 150 years.

Today I tasted Old Para Liqueur Vintage Tawny, a fortified wine that has aged 100 years in the barrel. It's made by Seppelt, this region's oldest vineyard. The oldest of the vintages was first put in the cask in 1878. Price per 375 ml: $525 Australian...about $395 U.S. The taste: Very smooth, and pretty well priceless.