The outstanding, juicy 2006 Hard Core (29% Mourvedre, 27% Syrah, 24% Grenache, and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon) offers loads of berry fruit as well as a sexy, full-throttle, aromatic display of red and black fruits, earth, herbs, and spice box. This full-bodied, deep, fleshy, lusty, hedonistic red will drink well for 3-4 years. These wines often need time to settle down given what is clearly an artisanal, non-interventionalistic winemaking style.Tel. (805) 714-5057; Fax (805) 938-7567

Here’s a full-bodied, Rhone-style red that’s rustically tannic, yet is dry and balanced. It’s a good partner for food, and will pair nicely with everything from roasts and Mexican fare to burgers and beef stew. With a little Cabernet Sauvignon added for body, it shows dark berry, currant, semi-sweet dark chocolate, sage and mushu plum sauce flavors.——S.H.(12/1/2008)—— 88