The 1996 Syrah Thompson Vineyard offers blackberry liqueur aromas intermixed with melted asphalt, smoke, and pepper. There is excellent richness, fine purity, and a chewy, medium-bodied personality. The acidity is well-balanced with the wine's fruit and structural components. It should drink well for 5-6 years. Stolpman Family Vineyard is one of the large new vineyards coming on line (a percentage of the production will be estate bottled under its name). This has been a source for high quality Rhone Ranger grapes such as Roussanne and Syrah, as well as other varietals. Tel. (805) 962-7003