The 2009 Syrah Ballard Canyon Estate is a big, jammy wine loaded with black fruit, plums, spices and licorice. It shows good depth, but little in the way of true complexity. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2014. I was very impressed with the Chardonnays and Pinots I tasted from Rusack. The Syrahs appear to be works in progress, but given the level of the best wines here, I see no reason why they can’t be of similar quality. Hopefully that will happen sooner rather than later.Tel. (805) 688-1278; info@rusackvineyards.com

One of the best Syrahs at this price point in California. It’s lush in blackberries, blueberries, chocolate and sweet oak, with a creamy mouthfeel. Drink now for freshness.——S.H.(4/1/2012)—— 92