The 2005 Syrah “Tobiano” is purple-colored with an expressive nose of spice box, pepper, leather, and blueberry. This is followed by a forward, easy-drinking wine, with light tannin in the finish. Drink it over the next several years. Importer: Kingston Family Vineyards, Portola Valley, CA; tel. (650) 854-4146

Very ripe but racy, with dark currant, plum, violet, mineral and cocoa powder notes. The long finish has plenty of fruit, but also keeps a nice floral edge. Drink now through 2008. 550 cases made, 550 cases imported.??–JM??Region: Chile / Aconcagua / Casablanca Valley Select to Add

Tobiano in 2005 is preferable to Kingston’s 2004 Bayo Oscuro Syrah. This wine has more lift, fruit and balance. The nose is lightly fruity and rubbery, while the palate issues snappy boysenberry and controlled herb notes. Not your average New World Syrah; it’ll make you think.——M.S.(9/1/2007)—— 88