The purple-colored 2009 Barrel Select Syrah (100%) was aged in French and American oak for 8 months. Notions of smoke, game, violets, and blueberry set the stage for a pleasant, uncomplicated Syrah with adequate varietal character and moderate length. Drink this friendly offering over the next 2-3 years. Santa Ema has been a reliable source of value priced wines for a number of years. Importer: TGIC Importers, Woodland Hills, CA; www.tgicimporters.com

Chunky and earthy on the nose, which is big but undistinguished. The palate is tight and high in acid, while the flavors of wood, mint and roasted berry fruits come with pepper and herbal accents. Dry and basic on the finish.——M.S.(12/1/2011)—— 85

Saturated purple in color and grapy on the nose. The palate is mouthfilling but carries semisharp acidity, and the flavors run in the direction of standard black fruit. Notes of mocha and coconut soften the finish, and overall this is a good but rather generic wine. ——M.S.(2/1/2011)—— 86

The 2007 Syrah Barrel Select is a wine aged in barrel for 8 months. It reveals a seriously deep color for its humble price, toasty blueberry aromas, and plenty of savory fruit. Drink this crowd-pleaser over the next three years. Santa Ema makes reliably excellent wines at fair prices from the bottom to the top of its portfolio.Importer: TGIC Imports, Woodland Hills, CA; Tel: (800) 924-0030