Fruity and direct, and a bit sharp in acids, with jammy flavors of blackberries and cherries. Okay as an everyday red.——S.H.(10/1/2009)—— 85

Black pepper dominates the aroma of this wine, along with black currants, grilled meat and something sweetly spicy and exotic, like a teriyaki dressing. In the mouth, it turns softly sweet and candied. Drink now. ——S.H.(12/1/2008)—— 85

After a shaky start, Ortman is beginning to get its Syrah act together. It’s not easy making a high-quality Syrah for this price, but this one manages to do it. Dry, soft and lush, it shows opulent blackberry, cherry, plum, coffee and chocolate flavors, with a spicy finish. Drink now.——S.H.(9/1/2007)—— 89

Veteran winemaker Chuck Ortman (formerly of Meridian) and his family are behind this wine, which boasts intriguing scents of white pepper, raw meat, dried herbs and mixed berries. On the palate, it’s true to the Ortman style of favoring elegance over weight, turning a little tart and lemony on the finish.——W.E.(9/1/2005)—— 86

Veteran Chuck Ortman took some tough as nails, tannic Edna Valley fruit and tried his best to soften and fatten it with Paso Robles grapes. The cool climate won out. This wine is hard and firm, dry and astringent. If you have the patience, it may reward cellaring for at least 10 years. ——S.H.(5/1/2004)—— 86