Two limited production offerings include the 2006 Syrah, a 600-case red offering floral and blackberry scents, medium to full body, sweet tannin, and a long, lush mouthfeel. It will provide pleasure over the next 4-5 years. Pride Mountain Vineyards is going through a transitionary stage with the departure of their renowned winemaker, Bob Foley, and the hiring of his replacement, Sally Johnston, formerly at St. Francis. The first Pride vintage where she had complete control is 2008. This is an impressive 83-acre vineyard spread high on Spring Mountain, traversing both the Napa and Sonoma County lines. Tasting through Pride’s 2006s was somewhat mixed. With the exception of the top Reserves, the wines did not appear to be at the same quality level as the 2005s, 2003s, 2002s, or 2001s. Keep in mind that 2004 was a troublesome year for Pride Mountain, and it looks like 2006 is another less than brilliant year. Nevertheless, some very good 2006s were made, but when expectations are so high, it is sometimes difficult to sustain them.Tel. (707) 963-4949; Fax (707) 963-6039

So soft and sweet in fruity, chocolaty richness, it’s almost like a Port, without the fortification, although the alcohol is a high 15.5%. The tastes are of melted chocolate and cherry pie filling, spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, salt and pepper.——S.H.(7/1/2009)—— 87