The 2008 La Croce Proprietary Red displays notes of sandalwood, earth, forest floor, underbrush, and spice along with angular tannins, good fruit, and medium body. It is a stylish, elegant blend to drink over the next 4-5 years. Tel. (805) 688-0400

A rich, dramatic and impressive wine. With vital acidity and dryness, it has complex layers of ripe cherries, red licorice, cranberries, pomegranates, mocha and cinnamon. Falls somewhere in texture between Pinot Noir and Merlot, either of which it can substitute for. Drink now. ——S.H.(3/1/2011)—— 90