(90% syrah and 10% grenache; 40% new oak): Deep ruby. Expansive black and blue fruit aromas are given depth by notes of licorice and espresso, with a sexy floral nuance coming up with air. Plush and rounded in the mouth, offering sweet blueberry and cassis flavors and a touch of bitter chocolate. A sweet vanilla quality builds through the finish, which shows very good energy and smooth, harmonious tannins. This generous, fruit-driven wine is already drinking nicely. (JR)

The blend is Syrah and Grenache. The wine is dry and pretty tannic, but ripe, with jammy cherry and blackberry flavors. It's also somewhat hot in alcohol. It suggests grilled beef, in the form of tacos or barbecue.