Syrah is a variety that thrives in hot weather, so it is not entirely surprising that 2005 was an especially challenging vintage for Le Macchiole's Scrio. It offers attractive notes of mint, toasted oak, chocolate and dark fruit framed by well-integrated, silky tannins. The wine improves with air, yet a hint of dilution remains in this small-scaled, slender Scrio. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2015. Le Macchiole releases its wines later than most estates on the Tuscan coast, so readers will find the 2004s in the market, while the 2005s are due to arrive this Fall. Proprietor Cinzia Merli and long-time oenologist Luca D-Attoma have turned out a glorious set of 2004s. The 2005 vintage proved to be much more challenging as the damp, fresh growing season made it hard to achieve full ripeness. These are pretty wines, but they aren't quite at the level of the estate's finest efforts. Importer: Domaine Select, New York, NY; tel. (212) 279-0799