Looking at the 2010s, which were all (aside from the Larner Syrah) last year, the 2010 High Tide is a blend of 50% Mourvedre, 33% Grenache and 17% Syrah that was aged almost all in neutral oak. It delivers an outstanding bouquet of crisp black cherries, spice, new leather, underbrush and cracked peppercorn to go with a medium-bodied, fresh and lively palate. Very juicy and with solid acidity, yet also with building richness and good tannin, this solid Rhone blend will deliver the goods for 5-7 years. Drink now-2020. Craig Jaffurs continues to produce a bevy of brilliant Rhone blends from his winery in Santa Barbara. While his 2010s are spectacular, his 2011s are lighter in color and weight, with more upfront characters. They should pick up additional weight with some bottle time, yet most will require drinking over the coming 5-6 years. Tel. (805) 962-7003; www.jaffurswine.com

The 2010 High Tide is one of the more laid back wines at Jaffurs this year. A blend of 50% Mourvedre, 33% Grenache and 17% Syrah, the High Tide boasts gorgeous inner perfume woven into layers of expressive. Sweet floral notes along with suggestions of spice and licorice all add further shades of nuance. This is another medium bodied wine with tons of near and medium-term appeal. The 2010 is 50% Mourvedre, 33% Grenache and 17% Syrah, from Thompson, Ampelos and Bien Nacido, all top sites. The Mourvedre was fermented with whole clusters, while the Grenache and Syrah were fully destemmed. The wine was aged predominantly in neutral oak and bottled in April 2012. Drinking window: 2013 – 2020