2006 Ravens Series (# 6 and 7 Grenache): This blend of 90% Grenache and 10% Syrah, largely from the 11 Confessions Vineyard, with a small amount from Bien Nacido, spent 21 months in barrel. It is really strutting its stuff now, and showing even better than my original note predicted in August of 2009. The wine has loads of meat, licorice, smoke, charcoal and graphite, as well as huge peppery, blackberry and black cherry notes. Full-bodied, with great acidity, nicely integrated tannin, an admirable mouthfeel and tremendous length, this killer Grenache is still young and probably 3-5 years away from prime time drinking. -RP

In comparison, the 2006 Sine Qua Non Grenache Raven Series was an open book and shows a perfumed, complex profile from the get go. A blend of 90% Grenache and 10% Syrah, fermented with 25% whole cluster, that spent 21 months in barrel, it delivers a classic Grenache profile of spiced berry fruit, graphite, spice-box, and licorice to go with a full-bodied, awesomely textured palate. While I found the ’06 In the Crosshairs slightly more compelling, this is one serious bottle of Grenache that flirts with perfection. It should continue to thrill for another decade or more.