The real stars from Andrew Murray are the three Syrahs. The outstanding 2005 Syrah Roasted Slope Vineyards boasts an earthy, peppery, black currant-scented bouquet followed by a wine with broad, savory, medium to full-bodied flavors. It is already drinking well, and should continue to evolve for 5-6 years. Tel. (805) 686-9604; Fax (805) 686-9704

An outstanding offering, the 2003 Syrah Roasted Slope Vineyard exhibits smoky, Cote Rotie-like, flowery, bacon fat, cassis, cherry, and licorice characteristics. It is elegant and medium-bodied with superb richness, sweet tannin, and decent acidity. Drink this complex beauty over the next 5-7 years. Tel. (805) 686-9604

Co-fermented with Viognier grapes which were so ripe they were almost late harvest. The Viognier dominates the Syrah, giving the wine a lemondrop sweetness that’s weird. Too bad, because the Syrah seems fine.——S.H.(11/15/2006)—— 84