The 2007 Syrah Barrel Select is a wine aged in barrel for 8 months. It reveals a seriously deep color for its humble price, toasty blueberry aromas, and plenty of savory fruit. Drink this crowd-pleaser over the next three years. Santa Ema makes reliably excellent wines at fair prices from the bottom to the top of its portfolio.Importer: TGIC Imports, Woodland Hills, CA; Tel: (800) 924-0030

Jammy and concentrated on the nose, but more sharp and citric than ideal in the mouth. The wine is borderline sharp, with sour cherry and cranberry flavors leading to a tart, zesty finish. Tastes sour every time you revisit it. ——M.S.(3/1/2010)—— 84