The 2006 Syrah is purple-colored with an aromatic array of lilacs and toasty blueberries. Surprisingly elegant on the palate with lively acidity, this nicely balanced effort has good length and a pure finish. Drink it over the next 3-4 years. Arboleda manages to produce a large quantity of wine while maintaining a high level of quality at friendly prices.Importer: Frederick Wildman & Sons, New York, NY; tel. (212) 355-0700

You can literally smell the oak, right down to the wood’s grain and resin. The palate is full and dense, with sweet, chewy berry fruit and lots of oak in support. Gets better with airing, but always holds onto the vanilla and cheese qualities that come straight from the barrel.——M.S.(9/1/2008)—— 85