The 2005 Broken Stones, a blend of 74% Syrah, 24% Grenache, and the rest Mourvedre, is a beauty. Notes of licorice, forest floor, pepper, spice box, and loads of black and red fruits jump from the glass as well as saturate the palate. This full-bodied, opulent wine has crisp acidity, some heady alcohol, and loads of flavor, depth, and richness. It is a savory wine to drink now and over the next 7-10 years. Tel. (805) 610-0363; fax (805) 238-2267

The 2005 Broken Stones, a blend of 74% Syrah, 24% Grenache, and the rest Mourvedre, is a beauty. Notes of licorice, forest floor, pepper, spice box, and loads of black and red fruits jump from the glass as well as saturate the palate. This full-bodied, opulent wine has crisp acidity, some heady alcohol, and loads of flavor, depth, and richness. It is a savory wine to drink now and over the next 7-10 years. Tel. (805) 610-0363; fax (805) 238-2267

Saxum has taken a considerable price increase with the ’05, which is a blend of Syrah and Grenache, with a touch of Mourvedre. It’s a soft, rich wine, powerful in red and black currant, cherry liqueur, chocolate and licorice flavors. It’s also fairly tough in tannins, although acidity is low. That gives it a slight rusticity. Drink now.——S.H.(5/1/2008)—— 89