The 2009 Syrah Ballard Canyon Estate is a big, jammy wine loaded with black fruit, plums, spices and licorice. It shows good depth, but little in the way of true complexity. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2014. I was very impressed with the Chardonnays and Pinots I tasted from Rusack. The Syrahs appear to be works in progress, but given the level of the best wines here, I see no reason why they can’t be of similar quality. Hopefully that will happen sooner rather than later.Tel. (805) 688-1278; info@rusackvineyards.com

One of the best Syrahs at this price point in California. It’s lush in blackberries, blueberries, chocolate and sweet oak, with a creamy mouthfeel. Drink now for freshness.——S.H.(4/1/2012)—— 92

The complex, dense ruby/purple-tinged 2005 Syrah Ballard Canyon Estate reveals notes of creme de cassis, tapenade, cedar, and spice. Displaying velvety tannin and medium to full body in its less evolved personality, it should drink well for a decade.Tel. (805) 688-1278; Fax (805) 686-1508