Intensely tannic but also beautifully crafted, with a firm, tightly wound core of plum, loganberry, wild berry, floral and black cherry that picks up touches of jam and spice. Comes full circle with a dry, tannic aftertaste. Best from 2003 through 2009. 10,000 cases made. -JL

From a family that pioneered “Pet” in Sonoma, and one that clearly still understands what to do with it, comes this dense, layered wine. It’s young, brooding and tannic. This isn’t a wimpy drink-me-now wine. It’s built to last, and Foppiano Petite Sirahs age gracefully and improve in the bottle for many years. ——S.H.(12/1/2002)—— 90

From a Petite Sirah pioneer, a very ripe, extracted wine brimming with black cherry, raspberry and blackberry fruit, with a hint of orange rind. It’s pretty tannic, although the wine retains its balance and charm. Undoubtedly an ager, but perfect now with roasts. ——W.E.(4/1/2003)—— 87