More soft and supple than I remember (reviewed last year and rated 93+), the 2010 Villa Creek Avenger is a blend of 60% Syrah, 30% Mourvedre and 10% Grenache that was fermented with 30% whole cluster and aged in 50% new French oak. It has loads of sweet raspberries and plum-styled fruit that’s intermixed with baking spices, ground pepper, licorice and floral qualities on the nose. This flows to go a full-bodied, supple and textured wine that has solid mid-palate concentration, beautiful freshness and sweet tannin that emerges on the lengthy, chewy finish. It’s outstanding and should be enjoyed over the coming 7-8 years. Drink now-2021. One of my favorite estates, Cris Cherry’s Villa Creek is located on the western side of Paso Robles, high up off Peachy Canyon Road. He continues to experiment with Rhone and increasingly Spanish (think Rioja and Priorat) varieties, as well as with varying amount of whole-cluster inclusion. The wines offer singular, unique profiles, with loads of flavor and character. Tel. (805) 238-7145; www.villacreekwine.com