The 2006 Syrah Reserve Glenrose Vineyard is a more subtle, slightly toned-down effort. Full-bodied with plenty of smoky, forest floor, spring flower, black and red fruit notes, it is a layered, voluptuously-textured wine with superb depth and purity. Consume it over the next 7-8 years. Unfortunately, I was not able to taste Adelaida Cellars’ Schoolhouse line of wines, which usually represent very good values. The quality at this estate continues to be impressive thanks to the efforts of their top-flight winemaker, Terry Culton.Tel. (805) 239-8980; Fax (805) 239-4671

Pretty much as good as Paso Robles Syrah gets. Shows incredibly fine tannic structure and ripe, luscious flavors of blackberry and cherry pie filling, cola, cocoa, bacon and sweet, smoky sandalwood from oak barrels. Pull it back a little in fruit, and it’s near perfect. Drink now.——S.H.(12/31/2009)—— 91