The austere and monolithic 2005 Syrah Garys’ Vineyard reveals an inky/purple color, plenty of licorice, blackberry, tar, and smoke. Tel. (707) 578-3882

Shows the way this vineyard and appellation ripen Syrah so well. Just overpowers the palate with cassis, licorice, leather and dark unsweetened, slightly bitter baker’s chocolate, with a potent dose of freshly crushed pepper. So impressive, the perfect expression of great terroir in a great, cool vintage. But it’s very tannic. Drink now through 2013.——S.H.(3/1/2008)—— 94