Assembled from six different parcels of hillside-grown fruit, the 2016 Dreadnought continues this cuvée's run of successes. Violets, peppery spices and mulberry notes appear on the nose, while the medium to full-bodied palate adds flavors of raspberries, espresso and chocolate. Silky and immediately approachable, it doesn't have the richness or concentration of the best vintages, and it should be consumed over the next 5-6 years.

To my mind the star of the Man O War lineup, the 2015 Dreadnought boasts the knockout aromas of violets and cracked pepper that have characterized nearly every vintage of this compelling wine. It's full-bodied without being weighty, with resiny notes of thyme and rosemary lending additional complexity to the dark berry and roasted-meat flavors. Softly dusty tannins linger on the finish, suggesting at least 5-6 years of additional longevity, probably more.

The 2013 Dreadnought is entering its prime drinking window, delivering smoke-accented black cherries and spicy, brambly dark berry notes. It's full-bodied and supple, with silky tannins and lingering licorice nuances on the long finish.

Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2009 Dreadnought Syrah has intense baking spice and black pepper notes over ripe blackberry, kirsch plus some toasty oak, vanilla and anise. Very crisp in the mouth with a medium level of rounded tannins, this generously fruited, full bodied Syrah gives a long and slightly oaky finish. Consider drinking now through 2016. Importer: Youngs Market, Tustin, CA

The 2008 Dreadnought is straightforward on the nose at first, yet it develops nicely with aeration with aromas of blackberry, boysenberry and a touch of fresh date. Good definition but the bouquet demands coaxing. The palate is medium-bodied, flirting with jamminess but it has just enough acidity to keep it the right side of balance, with succulent blackberry and boysenberry fruit, chewy finish and good length. Not a subtle Syrah, but it has chutzpah and brio. Drink 2011-2017. Importer: Youngs Market, Tustin, CA.