Pinot Noir specialist Babcock spreads his varietal wings with this rustic, simple Syrah. It’s rich in blackberry, coffee and cocoa flavors, but too sugary sweet for balance. ——S.H.(3/1/2006)—— 84

The 2000 Syrah Black Label Cuvee reveals excellent aromas of licorice, smoke, acacia flowers, earth, and subtle wood. Restrained, elegant, and medium-bodied, with flavors redolent with red as well as black fruits and a touch of earth, the finish possesses some acidity in addition to light to moderate tannin. Drink it over the next 7-8 years.Tel. (805) 736-1455

The 1999 Syrah Black Label Cuvee (752 cases) exhibits copious new oak, higher extraction, bold, muscular tannin, and notes of cassis, olives, tapenade, and pepper. Elegant and rich, with nicely integrated acidity as well as a smooth, expansive, rich finish, this impressive effort will drink well for 8-10 years.Tel. (805) 736-1455