An impressive, classy wine, the 2010 Syrah’s inky purple color is followed by a great bouquet of pure black and red berry fruits, charred earth, roasted meat and tinges of vanilla. A medium to full-bodied, rich, yet elegant Syrah, it has outstanding purity, integrated acidity and a seamless, lengthy finish. Count me a fan and it should continue to shine for another 5-7 years. Drink now-2020. Tel. (509) 525-1352; www.cadaretta.com

The red wines begin with the 2008 Syrah sourced from the Pepper Bridge and Stone Tree Vineyards with aging for 19 months in 75% new French oak. A glass-coating, opaque purple color, it offers up a slightly reticent nose of smoked meat, sandalwood, lavender, and blueberry. Spicy on the palate with a velvety texture, good depth, and plenty of flavor, this solid, well-balanced Syrah will be at its best from 2012 to 2018. Cadaretta’s three submissions are all outstanding.Tel. (877) 810-4939; www.cadaretta.com

The best Syrah so far from Cadaretta, this pure varietal is three-quarters Pepper Bridge and one-quarter Stone Tree Vineyard fruit. The purity and focus are compelling. Deep boysenberry fruit is highlighted with black olive and dusty coffee. Tight and expressive.——P.G.(12/15/2011)—— 91

Polished, focused and pure, with plum and spice flavors on a fine-textured, almost racy frame, the finish persisting nicely. Drink now through 2013. 378 cases made. -HS