Few Syrahs get this ripe, even in California. The wine explodes in blackberry and plum jam fruit flavors, with intricate layers of grilled meat, cola, licorice, black pepper, clove and cinnamon spice. The tannins are thick, smooth and delightful in the mouth, giving the wine a firm, balanced structure. Best through 2014, before the fruit starts to fade. ——S.H.(2/1/2012)—— 92