Though rather light in the glass for Syrah, this elegant bottling is not short on anything, and will only improve with time. Aromas of smoky tar, pepper-crusted lamb shank and delicate purple flowers lead into a palate packed with rosemary, thyme, dried sage and incense flavors. Brisk black raspberry and lilac slowly arise toward the midpalate. Drink now through 2039.

The 2019 Syrah (Sta. Rita Hills) is a gorgeous, cool climate Syrah blended from Donnachadh. Peake Ranch, John Sebastiano and Zotovich. Whole clusters, 100% for this wine, bring out tremendous aromatic intensity and presence to play off a core of blue/purplish fruit. Energetic, this Sta. Rita Hills is positively stellar. I loved it.

Northern Rhône-like notes of game, black and blue fruits, peppery herbs, and spring flowers emerge from the 2019 Syrah Sta. Rita Hills, a medium-bodied, elegant, balanced, lively Syrah that has firmer tannins, terrific balance, and a great finish. This is for those who love the more old-school, classic, savory side to this great variety.