Tablas Creek produced a small quantity of single varietal wines, which I enjoyed, but not as much as their blended cuvees. The deep ruby/purple-tinged 2003 Syrah reveals camphor, acacia flower, crushed rock, and blackberry aromas, medium to full body, and chalky tannin in the finish. It’s a very fine effort, but I would encourage this winery to continue with their avant garde blending program as opposed to the single varietal wines. Tel. 805-237-1231; Fax 805-237-1314

Tablas continues to work to advance red Rhones in their western corner of Paso Robles. The wine shows an edge of tangy acidity and tannin that provides relief to the cherry, cocoa, coffee and peppery spice flavors. Finishes dry and fruity, and probably at its best now. ——S.H.(10/1/2005)—— 87