A little harsh and tannic on opening, with a touch of overripeness, but softens as it breathes. Ultimately satisfies for its white pepper and smoky oak-infused cassis, cherry and leather flavors that finish dry and clean. Could develop in the next 2 years.——S.H.(3/1/2008)—— 87

Sweet and simple, with plenty of ripe cherry and chocolate flavor. I’d be surprised if there’s not residual sugar, given the fairly moderate alcohol of 13.2%.——S.H.(9/1/2007)—— 83

This junior version of Ventana’s Maverick Syrah is quite good, with its polished blackberry, plum and coffee flavors and stylish tannins. It’s dry, with a firm tannic grip that will prove an ample match to a leg of lamb. Finishes long and fruity, suggesting midterm ageability. ——S.H.(9/1/2004)—— 90

This cool-climate Syrah is firmly structured, and boasts a blast of pepper and herb flavors alongside riper ones of blackberries. This is a young, fresh wine with some complexity. —S.H. ——S.H.(2/1/2003)—— 88