The 1996 Vin de Mistral Syrah is a sexy, lush, opulently-styled wine revealing more precociousness and early charm than I predicted a year ago. Aged in both American and French oak, it possesses a dark ruby/purple color, a spicy, bacon fat, cassis, and blackberry-scented nose, soft, lush flavors, and a heady, concentrated finish. It is best drunk during its first 10-12 years of life.About 700-800 cases were produced.Tel. (707) 963-2745; Fax (707) 963-4831

The dark ruby-colored 1996 Le Mistral is a gutsy, bistro red with an exotic nose of incense, peppers, red and black fruits, and perfume. While it is not complex, and is displaying less fat than when I tasted it last year, it remains a fun, delicious wine to enjoy over the next 7-8 years.The Vin de Mistral Le Mistral is a Cotes du Rhone-like blend of Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre, Carignan, Petite Sirah, Alicante, and Syrah.Tel. (707) 963-2745; Fax (707) 963-4831

From one of California’s Syrah pioneers. The ’96 is a spicy and delicious wine with deep and powerful fruit; the finish is long and velvety smooth.——L.W(10/1/1999)—— 87