The 1999 Syrah Firepeak Vineyard (591 cases) possesses a deep color along with a peppery, cassis, and earth-scented bouquet with hints of oak in the background. While lacking stuffing and depth, it is a savory, open-knit, medium-bodied effort to enjoy over the next 5-6 years.Tel. (805) 597-8200

A pleasant, richly fruity, spicy, peppery, smoky, black currant-scented and flavored wine, the 1999 Syrah Paso Robles (2050 cases) is a reasonably good value from California. Soft, clean, and easy to understand as well as consume, it should be drunk over the next 2-3 years. Tel. (805) 597-8200

Cassis, fig, smoke and toast are among the descriptors used by our panelists for this tasty South Central Coaster. It might be called a strong generalist—it has good feel and structure, espresso and licorice accents, and a long, tart-sweet, dryly tannic finish.——W.E.(11/1/2001)—— 89

Stewed dark fruit, earth and a smidgen of cotton-candy sweetness characterize Baileyana’s nose; clove, “very grapey,” and black cherry flavors show up on the mouth. Medium-weight and somewhat angular, it closes with powdery tannins and sweet cherry flavors.——W.E.(10/1/2001)—— 87