Rating: 90/100 - As reviewed by International Wine Cellar in Issue 130, January/February 2007. ($63; an 80/20 blend of syrah and petite sirah) Saturated ruby.Musky aromas of cassis, black plum, minerals and earth, with a pronounced oakiness. Fat, lush and sweet but firm-edged, with blackberry and licorice flavors complicated by a saline element. Finishes full and smooth, with substantial building tannins, a peppery quality and some tarry oak.

In this fifth vintage, the Syrah is really developing, bringing classic earthy, meaty varietal character along with aromas and flavors of blackberry, spice, chocolate, liqueur, black licorice and cedar. This release is viscous, well-integrated, dense and massive. The fruit-weight carries the big tannins and offers a long finish.