An equal part of co-fermented Sangiovese and Syrah, the 2005 La Croce, which is aged in large 500-liter French pungeons, is a well-made, serious, bistro/trattoria-styled wine with loads of berry fruit and some hints of fresh tobacco interwoven with licorice, pepper, and roasted herbs. The wine has excellent texture, medium to full body, and no hard edges. It should drink nicely for 4-5 years. Tel. (805) 688-0400