The 2008 Windthrow is a four vineyard blend of 36% Syrah, 29% Mourvedre, 18% Counoise, and 17% Grenache aged for 20 months in 36% new French oak. Underbrush, brier, earthy minerals, lavender, black cherry, and blueberry aromas inform the nose of a dense, layered, relatively forward, supple Rhone Ranger offering that can be approached now but will last for another 6-8 years. Cadaretta’s three submissions are all outstanding.Tel. (877) 810-4939; www.cadaretta.com

Taut, with tomato leaf and smoke undertones to the dark berry and plum fruit, finishing with firm tannins. Has the goods to develop with age. Syrah, Mourvedre, Counoise and Grenache. Best from 2013 through 2016. 110 cases made. -HS

Windthrow is a southern Rhone-style blend of 36% Syrah, 29% Mourvedre, 18% Counoise and 17% Grenache. Ripe and nicely focused, it wraps sleek raspberry fruit in delicate layers of oak, mineral and acid. Tannins are smooth and subtle; the finish is like a fine pastry lingering in the back of the mouth. ——P.G.(11/1/2011)—— 92