Ballentine is better known for well-crafted Bordeaux reds and Zinfandel, but they also bring that claret-like sensibility to Syrah. This single-vineyard ’04 from St. Helena is lush and soft and likeable. It shows deep flavors of blackberries, cassis, rose petals and violets, sweetened and complexed with toasty oak. It’s a touch overripe, which limits ageability and lowers the score.——S.H.(12/1/2008)—— 87