The 2004 Venge Family Reserve Syrah, which comes from vineyards planted on the Rutherford floor as well as Chiles Valley, was aged in one-third new oak. It exhibits gamy red currant, blackberry, and loamy soil notes offered in a spicy, medium-bodied, straightforward style. More complexity, flavor dimension, and texture would be beneficial. It should drink well for 3-4 years. Previously recommended: 2002 Venge Family Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon (97), 2003 Venge Family Reserve Merlot (90).Saddleback Cellars tel. (707) 944-1305; fax (707) 944-1325; Venge Winery tel. (707) 967-1008

The more limited production, flagship cuvees are bottled under the Venge Family Reserve label. The 2003 Syrah possesses plenty of blackberry and cassis fruit, notions of tar and pepper, and a medium to full-bodied, monolithic style. It does not possess the complexity found in the Merlots and Cabernet Sauvignons, but it should provide good drinking over the next 5-6 years. Shortly before I wrote this report, I had my last bottle of one of Venge’s great Cabernet Sauvignons, the 1978 Villa Mt. Eden (a vineyard now owned by Plumpjack). Still spectacular at 27 years of age, this fabulously complex Cabernet Sauvignon is further proof that few people have as much experience and a resume as impressive as the ebullient Nils Venge.Saddleback Cellars tel. (707) 944-1305; fax (707) 944-1325; Venge Winery tel. (707) 967-1008

This wine was recommended, but no tasting note was given.