The 2009 Syrah Bien Nacido Vineyard explodes from the glass with dazzling layers of blackberries, blueberries, tar and incense. This is a showstopper of a wine endowed with fabulous intensity. Today, some of the more opulent qualities dominate, but the wine should start settling down with another year or two in bottle. It is fabulous. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2020. This is a very strong showing from Rhone specialist Craig Jaffurs. The Syrahs in particular are outstanding. In 2009 the Syrahs were picked between October 5 and November 4 illustrating just how long the harvest can stretch in Santa Barbara. The straight Santa Barbara County is an excellent starting point, and easily one of the best values readers will find in California Syrah. Tel. (805) 962-7003