Both rich and powerful with a measure of finesse and restraint commingling dark berry boysenberry and huckleberry flavors with spice cedar tobacco and licorice. Maintains its focus and persistence on the finish. A new Syrah from Alban coming from a younger vineyard. Drink now through 2023. From California. -J.L.

The 2009 Syrah Patrina is a new wine made from parcels that have never been used for Reva Lorraine or Seymour's. The parcels are an assortment of younger vineyards and plots that were previously under contract when Alban sold fruit to other growers. It is a gorgeous inviting wine laced with expressive aromatics and layers of supple generous fruit. The radiance of the vintage is on full display. This is a great introduction to the house style and should also drink well upon release. Alban plans to give the Patrina 24-25 months in French oak. At $48.00 a bottle the Patrina will be the least expensive wine in the Alban range. The Patrina will be sold through standard distribution channels rather than through the mailing list. It offers a rare and affordable glimpse into the craft of one of the Central Coast's most enduring pioneers of Rhone varieties. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2020. -AG