Rusack's 1997 Syrah would have been rated slightly higher except for the lavish quantities of American oak. The wine exhibits plenty of jammy blackberry/cassis flavors, but the oak is elevated. Nevertheless, there is a lot to like in terms of concentration, depth, and the wine's mouth-filling abilities. Drink it over the next 5-6 years. Rusack Vineyards appears to be an interesting winery to follow. Tel. (805) 688-1278