They might have called this Shiraz instead of Syrah, because it’s like a big, bold, lip-smacking Aussie wine. It just floods your mouth with jammy, juicy blackberry, blueberry, mulberry, plum, chocolate, caramel and spice flavors. The wine was barrel fermented, which adds a smoky, creamy quality.——S.H.(6/1/2008)—— 89

Shows its aspirations to the northern Rhone in the 100% varietal that’s wrapped in dense young tannins now, but deep down below brims with finely ripe fruit. Black currants, licorice, mu shu pork plum sauce, sweet worn leather and Asian spice flavors mingle into a long, complex finish. This is a wine to watch. ——S.H.(12/31/2006)—— 88

This full-bodied Syrah skirts the boundary of overripe, with some reviewers calling it dense, smooth and supple, while Tasting Director Joe Czerwinski found it thick and Port-like. At nearly 16% alcohol, maybe he has a point. But for lovers of the style, this chocolaty Syrah will hit the mark. ——W.E.(9/1/2005)—— 85