A co-fermented blend of equal parts Syrah and Sangiovese that comes from a single block of the Stolpman Vineyard, the 2011 La Croce (aged 16 months in 25% new 300-liter barrels) dishes out quality aromas of bright cherry, tar, licorice and toasted spice on the nose. Medium-bodied, pure, supple and beautifully balanced, it needs another handful of years in the cellar and sill evolve nicely through 2021. Drink 2014-2021. Under the guidance of Sashi Moorman (of Sandhi Wines and the winemaker here since 2001), this estate has slowly moved toward earlier picking and slightly more fresh, elegant wines. Tel. (805) 688-0400; www.stolpmanvineyards.com