The 2007 My Favorite Neighbor is an equal part blend of Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Petit Verdot. Chocolate, espresso, and black currant notes dominate the intense aromatics. The full-bodied mouthfeel reveals sweet tannin along with stunning opulence and voluptuousness. This serious, intensely concentrated, innovative blend from the limestone soils of the Booker Vineyard works beautifully. It should evolve for 15+ years. Bravo!Booker Vineyard has quickly established itself as one of the top sites in the Paso Robles region for Rhone varietals. This 40-acre vineyard is planted in limestone soils, just west of Highway 101, and every wine I have tasted since their debut 2005 vintage has been unapologetically Californian in flavor, exuberance, personality, and soul. The current and upcoming releases continue Booker’s Midas touch with these varietals. The red wines are nearly off the chart in terms of their aromatic complexity with stacked and packed personalities as well as brilliant balance.Tel. (805) 237-7367; Fax (805) 237-7368

A wine I did not taste last year elicited a big “wow.” The 2006 My Favorite Neighbor (a blend of equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Petit Verdot) should open consumers’ eyes for the potential of blends such as this. Its inky/blue/purple color is followed by a sweet nose of creme de cassis, camphor, lead pencil shavings, smoke, and blueberries. Full-bodied, deep, and rich, with silky tannins, and remarkable length as well as concentration, this stunning 2006 can be drunk now or cellared for 10-15+ years. It will be fascinating to follow its evolution. Booker Vineyard, a 40-acre vineyard planted on limestone soils just west of Highway 101, continues to strut its stuff after its impressive debut in 2005. I retasted several of the 2006s I had last year, and the ratings were slightly elevated.Tel. (805) 237-7367; Fax (805) 237-7368