Classic notes of graphite, tapenade, blackberries, and cassis dominate the deep ruby/purple-hued 2005 Syrah Bien Nacido Vineyard’s aromatics. Structured and muscular with abundant tannins as well as superb concentration, it will benefit from several years of cellaring, and should keep for 15+. It is by far the most northern Rhone Hermitage-like of these 2005s. Tel. (805) 649-1674

Classic notes of graphite, tapenade, blackberries, and cassis dominate the deep ruby/purple-hued 2005 Syrah Bien Nacido Vineyard’s aromatics. Structured and muscular with abundant tannins as well as superb concentration, it will benefit from several years of cellaring, and should keep for 15+. It is by far the most northern Rhone Hermitage-like of these 2005s. Tel. (805) 649-1674

This was a great vintage for Ojai’s Bien Nacido Syrah. The wine is firm and strong and powerful, offering a blast of black pepper, then spreading out to include blackberries, red currants, dark chocolate, anise and cedar. It’s a dramatic young wine that should easily develop for at least six years.——S.H.(9/1/2009)—— 94