Starting off the more southern Rhone-inspired blends, the 2005 James Berry Vineyard is a brilliant effort that’s drinking perfectly. Made from 70% Syrah, 20% Mourvedre and 10% Grenache, it gives up incredible aromas of sweet blackcurrants, blackberry liqueur, spiced meats, licorice and roasted meats that are just now starting to show hints of evolution. Sweetly fruited and with full-bodied richness, this beauty is hard to resist and has fabulous concentration, sweet tannin and a seamless finish. It will have another decade of longevity, yet there is no harm in drinking it now. - Jeb Dunnuck

Solidly in the Saxum style, which is to say a high alcohol (15.5%), massively flavored wine of enormous concentration and power. The blackberry, cherry, cassis and chocolate flavors have all kind of overtones, ranging from licorice and vanilla to gingerbread and candied violets. Saxum has become a cult favorite, one of the highest-priced brands from Paso Robles, and wines like this are the reason why. Drink now and through 2008. Syrah, Mourvèdre and Grenache.