An emerging “grand cru” site in Santa Ynez is Rodney’s Vineyard, named in honor of Fess Parker’s deceased son-in-law. He sells some of the fruit to other wineries who often designate it as “Rodney Shull Vineyard.” Parker’s 2003 Syrah Rodney’s Vineyard is an opaque ruby/purple-colored offering revealing gorgeously deep, expansive, flamboyant aromatics of black currants, smoke, bacon fat, dried herbs, sweet licorice, and white chocolate. It is a full-bodied, powerful, textured, sumptuous Syrah that cascades over the palate with copious glycerin, richness, and silky tannin. This beautiful wine should drink well for 10-12 years or longer. Former actor and current real estate developer, hotel owner, and vineyard developer, Fess Parker continues to oversee a bevy of top vineyards that produce increasingly better and better wine. His son, Eli, handles the winemaking at Fess Parker Winery as well as for his own label, Epiphany. I continue to be impressed with the level of quality of just about everything produced at this estate. These are serious wines offered at reasonable prices.Tel. (805) 688-1545

The 2003 Syrah Rodney's Vineyard nods to the Barossa with its rich, sun-kissed bouquet of baked black cherries, grilled meat, eucalyptus, cedar, crème de cassis and dark chocolate. On the palate, it's full-bodied with melting tannins and a rich core of sweet fruit complemented by savory nuances. It's holding up very well, though I'd start pulling corks now.