Bottled by Crystal Valley Cellars in Yountville and blended from several different Syrahs from the area, this deep red gives up aromas of cassis, black currant, and dark berries. Flavors are full and complex, with exotic fruits like figs which make a great first impression on the palate. This is a winner in my book. MORE >>

Perhaps in an attempt to relive some of the recent glory of Northern Rhône Syrah with steak , I opened a 2008 Pierre Gonon Vin de Pays de l'Ardèche Les Iles Feray , $17, Imported by Fruit of the Vines, Inc. Our spring this year skipped over the typical two weeks of mid 60's weather and seems to have jumped straight to high 70's. MORE >>

After a few beer nights, I finally was able to open, taste and drink two remaining red wines I have received from Cinnabar Winery; the 2008 Sextant Vineyards Syrah and the 2006 Santa Cruz Mountains Cabernet Sauvignon. We did the Syrah first with a light dinner of breaded chicken fingers with a mix of steak and sweet potato fries. MORE >>

Some preferred the very elegant Syrah with steak, others the Petite Syrah or Full-bodied Chardonnay with pasta. also liked the Syrah and the 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. News cabernet franc eponymous petite sirah robert l pepi syrahWine Spectator called Bob's first Cabernet Sauvignon "a Cellar Selection.". MORE >>

Ah, Syrah! When it comes to choosing a Syrah from its strict, mineral-rich, traditional home in the Rhone Valley, or its competition, the fresh-faced, fruit-forward California eye-candy, one would think that in a blind tasting the two wines are easy to define and name. Do you prefer it young, fresh, and juicy with expression? MORE >>