The 2001 Optimus (a blend of 47% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Syrah, 5% Zinfandel, and 3% Petit Verdot with 15.4% alcohol) is a blockbuster. A dense purple color precedes the sumptuous perfume of blueberries, blackberries, acacia flowers, and licorice. The small percentages of Petit Verdot and Zinfandel along with the huge amount of Syrah give this wine much more up-front, accessible aromatic and flavor profiles. Drink this beautiful red now and over the next 10-12 years. Tel. (805) 227-1588

The 2001 Optimus (a blend of 47% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Syrah, 5% Zinfandel, and 3% Petit Verdot with 15.4% alcohol) is a blockbuster. A dense purple color precedes the sumptuous perfume of blueberries, blackberries, acacia flowers, and licorice. The small percentages of Petit Verdot and Zinfandel along with the huge amount of Syrah give this wine much more up-front, accessible aromatic and flavor profiles. Drink this beautiful red now and over the next 10-12 years. Tel. (805) 227-1588

A ripe, fleshy, openly fruity style, with plum jam, raspberry and blackberry fruit flavors, a smooth, fleshy texture, finishing with finely integrated tannins and a long aftertaste. Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Petit Verdot and Zinfandel. Drink now through 2010. 2,500 cases made. -JL

From Rhone-possessed Paso Robles, an adventurous blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Petit Verdot and Zinfandel. The aroma is subdued now, closed and brooding. On the palate is an explosion of cassis, briar, chocolate and coffee. Sweet, ripe tannins make for a dusty mouthfeel. Needs a minimum of a year in the cellar.——S.H.(6/1/2004)—— 92