The 2007 The Oracle of Delphi (96% Syrah and 4% Viognier from the Bien Nacido, Watch Hill, and McGinley vineyards) will spend 38-42 months in 400- and 500-liter, 100% new French puncheons. It offers a dense purple color along with a big, sweet kiss of blackberries, creme de cassis, licorice, acacia flowers, and background oak. Full-bodied, powerful, and rich with silky tannins as well as a sense of elegance, this looks to be the finest of Sanguis’ 2007s. It should age nicely for 10-15 or more years. This small artisanal winery is the brainchild of Matthias Pippig, who began this operation in 2004.Tel. (805) 640-9432

A brilliant Syrah, showing its cool-climate origins with a burst of white pepper. Much of the fruit comes from the Bien Nacido Vineyard, and the Syrah contains 4% Viognier. Firm tannins and fine acidity give this delicious wine structure, but it’s mostly notable for the extraordinary depth and length of its blackberry, currant, teriaki beef, mushroom and cedar flavors. The wine easily stands up to 100% new French oak casks. ——S.H.(2/1/2011)—— 95