Deep garnet-purple colored, 2008 Syrah has a very spicy character with notes of nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves, aniseed, vanilla and fenugreek over black cherry compote and blueberry pie filling. Full bodied with crisp acidity to cut through the ripe fruit, it is nicely textured with a medium level of grainy tannins, finishing long and spicy. Drinking now, it should hold its appealing vibrancy and texture to 2015. Importer: Miller Squared Inc, Buffalo Grove, IL

Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2008 Reserve Syrah is a little reduced to begin with notes of tar and rubber over a blackberry and black cherry core plus some pepper, cloves and dried herbs. Light to medium-bodied with a medium level of slightly astringent tannins, it has crisp acidity and a long berry-laced finish. Drinking now, it should remain fresh to 2014. Importer: Miller Squared Inc, Buffalo Grove, IL