Helped by extra bottle age, this Syrah is the best of the latest releases from Cliff Creek. Balanced and varietal, its spicy berry fruit is highlighted with grapefruity phenolics. Flavors penetrate and stand up well into a medium-long, balanced finish. ——P.G.(10/1/2010)—— 88

This is estate-grown and nicely ripened, showing sweet scents and flavors of blackberry compote. Though it trends toward a jammy, high-alcohol profile, it keeps itself firm with solid, smooth tannins and enough acid to provide support. It’s more California than Oregon, with the sweet fruit and high alcohol backed with a liquor-barrel finish.——P.G.(11/15/2007)—— 88