The 2009 Syrah Williamson Dore Vineyard (includes 5% Viognier) sweeps across the palate with layers of beautifully delineated dark fruit. White flowers, licorice and blueberries come together in this graceful, restrained wine. The supple, silky finish is quite attractive, yet this comes across as needing at least another year in bottle for all of the elements to fully harmonize. The Williamson Dore spent 16 months in 500-liter Hungarian oak barrels, 50% new. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2021. I was blown away by the wines I tasted from Foxen. Low yields, late harvests, fully destemmed fruit and bottling with no fining or filtration are some of the elements that define these exceptional, fine wines.Tel. (805) 937-4251. www.foxenvineyard.com

Ripe and decadent as usual, maybe even more so in blackberry tart, melted dark chocolate and spicy plum flavors with a touch of funky bacon. You can’t help but be impressed by the richness. Saved from being a mere fruit bomb by acidity and lush, smooth tannins. Drink now. ——S.H.(12/1/2011)—— 93