The finish is dry and toughly tannic on this elegant Syrah. With smoked meat, black cherry, blueberry, pepper and salt flavors, it’s a chewy wine, full-bodied and complex, brightened with fine acidity. Seems best in its youth for freshness. ——S.H.(10/1/2011)—— 90

Shows real pedigree in the quality of tannins, fine coastal acidity and long, rich flavors. It’s a cool-climate Syrah brimming with complex blackberry, black pepper, bacon and sandalwood flavors. Feels elegant in the mouth, a fine accompaniment to a great grilled steak or chop.——S.H.(12/31/2009)—— 90

Laetitia is a great vineyard but this Syrah is too ripe for comfort or pleasure. Entirely dry, it’s also very high in alcohol, with 15.7%, which makes it too hot, and lacking the rich fruitiness for balance.——S.H.(12/15/2008)—— 82

There aren’t many Arroyo Grande Syrahs, this being Burgundian terroir, but this one aspires to Cote Rotie standards. It’s a fine and interesting wine. Shows white pepper and blackberry flavors, quite dry and well-oaked, with intricate tannins. Best now and through 2006.——S.H.(12/31/2005)—— 92