The generic Russian River 2007 Syrah is a close second, and for the difference in price, certainly the pick for bargain hunters. Elegantly styled, with hints of black olives, meat juices, and black fruits, it is juicy, medium to full-bodied, pure, and even exuberant, in a slightly more fruit-forward style than the single vineyard wine. Tel. (707) 433-3473; Fax (707) 433-3440

The 2006s included the Russian River bottling, which for some reason displays a lot more oak and less charm than its counterpart in 2007. Nevertheless, there is some olive, black cherry and black currant fruit, and a hint of earth. Tel. (707) 433-3473; Fax (707) 433-3440