The Saddleback Cellars reds include a very good 2006 Syrah Los Carneros. This offering is co-fermented with a tiny portion of Viognier, which provides a seductive, floral note to the wine's peppery, meaty style. It is a mid-weight red reminiscent of a Crozes-Hermitage or St.-Joseph from France's Northern Rhone. This is a two-tiered operation with the Saddleback Cellars wines generally made from blends of estate fruit from their 20 acres in Oakville as well as purchased lots. The Venge Family Reserve cuvees are made from nearly all estate grown fruit with small amounts of purchased fruit utilized as well. The Venge Family Reserve wines tend to be the more esteemed, and consequently, are higher priced. This is a fun estate to visit as there is no shortage of personality from the father and son team of Nils and Kirk Venge. The flagship offerings appear under the Venge Family Reserve label. Some enticing wines are produced, largely from estate vineyards in Oakville, but occasionally supplemented by purchased fruit.Tel. (707) 944-1305; Fax (707) 944-1325; Venge Family Reserve: Tel. (707) 942-9100; Fax (707) 942-9121

Here’s a soft, polished Syrah that’s ready to drink now. It’s fully dry, with lovely flavors of blackberries, blueberries, currants, sweet old leather, peppery spices and sandalwood.——S.H.(12/15/2009)—— 87