Thank goodness there are 369 cases of the 2007 Syrah Fess Parker Vineyard. This 100% Syrah tastes like a northern Rhone with lots of white pepper, roasted herb, licorice, blackberry, and creme de cassis notes presented in a full-bodied, opulent, exuberant, pure, impressive style. The problem with this winery is not the quality, which is impressively high across the board, but less than 200 cases each of more than ten of these offerings are available, making it virtually impossible for anyone to find the wines. I understand the concept of trying single vineyard offerings, but there is a point of availability. Why not just blend some of these cuvees together so there is decent distribution? Then again, I’m not a marketing expert, so I may not understand the logic behind them. In any event, I will keep my notes brief on those wines whose production is less than 200 cases. These are all very impressive as well as fairly priced efforts from Jeff Cohn, who unquestionably knows what he is doing. However, their limited availability is a downer, particularly at this level of quality.Tel. (510) 465-5900; fax (510) 465-5900

The dense ruby/purple-colored 2005 Syrah Fess Parker Vineyard reveals exceptional fruit as well as notes of road tar, camphor, chocolate, blackberry liqueur, and roasted meat. This superb, full-bodied Syrah possesses silky tannin and a long finish. Enjoy it over the next 7-8 years. Previously recommended: 2004 Petite Syrah Frediani Vineyard (93), 2004 Syrah Caldwell Vineyard (91), 2004 Syrah Fess Parker Vineyard (92), 2004 Syrah Philary Vineyard (96), 2004 Syrah Rockpile Vineyard Haley’s Reserve (93+).Tel 510-465-5900; Fax 510-465-5901