($60) (15% alcohol, from vines picked into November; fermented with 2% viognier skins; fermented in stainless steel and aged for 16 months in neutral French oak):  Good bright medium ruby.  Pungent, nuanced nose combines blueberry, dark raspberry, pepper, spice, licorice and iodine, plus a suggestion of garrigue that reminded me of Mediterranean France.  Then subtly fruity, perfumed and classically dry in the mouth, with mellow blackberry and licorice flavors showing none of the animal side of the variety.  Finishes with a firm dusting of tannins and a touch of austerity.  Very promising syrah.

Rich and extracted, with intense beefy dark berry and savory herb flavors that will surely reward cellaring. Tempting now, but the tannins hold you at arm's length. Best from 2013 through 2023. 886 cases made. –JL

The 2010 Syrah bursts from the glass with sweet dark cherries, licorice, tobacco and menthol. A big, fruit-driven Syrah, the 2010 impresses for its combination of intense fruit and powerful structure. Today the fruit is quite primary, but more expressive varietal notes should develop with time. Sweet, floral notes add a measure of brightness on the finish. Overall, this is an impressive effort. The 2010 was aged in neutral oak. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2020.

A tremendous Syrah, the way Pride makes all their red wines.  The mashed ripe cherries, cherry liqueur and mocha flavors immediately explode, leading to a deep, long-lasting and spicy finish.  With intense mountain concentration and a smattering of sweet, smoky oak, it's best enjoyed soon for its sheer, heady power. - S.H.