Not to be forgotten are the 400+ cases of Colgin’s Estate IX Syrah. The French-styled 2006 IX Syrah Estate offers an exotic nose of roasted meats, bouquet garni, and flowers, silky tannins, and full-bodied blackberry and cherry fruit. Drink it over the next 5-7 years. Colgin is one of the reference points for just what heights mountain-grown Cabernet Sauvignon, Bordeaux varietals, and more recently, Syrah, can achieve in Napa Valley. This beautiful estate and winery overlooking Lake Hennessey is owned by Joe Wender and his wife, Ann Colgin (equally renowned for her auctioneering skills), who are assisted by David Abreu, the well-known Bordeaux wine consultant, Dr. Alain Raynaud, and Allison Tauziet, who has skillfully replaced the brilliant Mark Aubert. As the scores and tasting notes suggest, this was an exceptional tasting. Colgin’s 2006s are among the finest wines produced in the vintage.Tel. (707) 963-0999; Fax (707) 963-0996

An amazing Syrah, vivid, juicy and concentrated, with blackberry and wild berry fruit providing the centerpiece to this complex, full-bodied beauty, which reveals hints of mineral, spice and pebble as it unfolds, ending with firm, chunky fruit flavors. Best from 2010 through 2018. 400 cases made. -JL

Massive, high in alcohol, distinctly New World in style, this 100% Syrah impresses for its sheer volume. Explodes on the palate with waves of blackberries, cherries, currants, anise, leather, mocha and peppery spices that sink in deep and last long on the finish. With alcohol approaching 16%, it’s a wine you’ll either love or hate. Best now and through 2012 for youthful opulence.——S.H.(4/1/2010)—— 93