From a limestone vineyard planted in 1992, the impressive, dark ruby/purple-tinged 2003 Syrah Reserve Viking Vineyard boasts a beautifully pure bouquet of white flowers, blackberries, and a hint of toasty oak. Full-bodied, structured, and rich with ripe tannin, abundant fruit, and plenty of extract, this dense, well-balanced Syrah will drink well for a decade. Tel. (800) 676-1232

Lots of tasty cherry pie, cocoa, leather and spice flavors here, and the wine is nicely dry, but it’s too soft and there’s a hot, peppery mouthfeel. ——S.H.(11/15/2006)—— 83