The 2006 Syrah Hilltops Estate exhibits an incredibly fragrant nose of honeysuckle, black cherries, and cassis intermixed with hints of smoke and that underlying floral component. Its provocative character is not dissimilar from a ripe Cote Rotie from the northern Rhone. This creative, individualistic effort should drink nicely for 7-8 years. Stolpman Vineyards continues to produce impressive wines under the guidance of the highly regarded Santa Ynez winemaker, Sashi Moorman. Tel. (805) 688-0400