Aromas of black fruits tapenade ground pepper and spice box emerge from the 2005 Syrah Russian River (1400 cases). There is some herbaceousness underneath the fruit but the wine is full-bodied rich complex and comes across like a Crozes-Hermitage on steroids. Drink it over the next 5-6 years. As I said last year DuMol is one of my favorite wineries primarily because of the passion and commitment to quality of owner Kerry Murphy and his winemaker Andy Smith.Previously recommended: 2003 Chardonnay Chloe (94+) 2003 Chardonnay Isobel (94) 2003 Pinot Noir Finn (93) 2003 Pinot Noir Ryan (90+) 2003 Syrah Eddie's Patch (95).Tel. (925) 254-8922; Fax (925) 254-8942

Lots of spice pepper fresh earth and new leather scents join ripe blueberry and blackberry flavors. Taut focused and complex this homes in on its spicy attributes on the finish. Drink now through 2011. 1176 cases made. –JL