The 2007 High Road, which is Villa Creek’s blend of 45% Syrah, 35% Grenache, and 20% Mourvedre from the James Berry Vineyard, has the telltale chalky minerality that comes from these limestone hillsides. Displaying beautiful floral, raspberry, and black cherry notes, some blacker currants make an appearance as the wine sits in the glass. A quintessential wine of both power and finesse, with medium to full body, great purity, and length, this stunning red can be drunk now or over the next 7-8 years. Among my favorite producers from California’s Central Coast, Villa Creek had five of six offerings that showed brilliantly.Tel. (805) 238-7145; Fax (805) 238-7514