The 2006 Syrah/Viognier that displays a Cote-Rotie style nose with a dash of white pepper, baked Alaska, cherry and dates, the palate full-bodied and plump with very polished tannins, dominated by some unresolved new oak at present but with the balance to suggest this ravishing Syrah should age with consummate ease. Drink after a couple of years and then for the next 8-10.This is another icon of New Zealand, whose wines helped put their Pinot Noir on the international map, their Reserve Pinot Noirs attaining high market prices (a vertical will be written up separately.)Importer: The Sorting Table, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 603-1463; fax (707) 603-1470

The 2006 Syrah-Viognier has a ripe, almost extrovert bouquet of mulberry, sloe, honey and a touch of eau-de-vie emanating from the Viognier. The palate is medium-bodied and very supple in texture with hints of sloe, fig and stem ginger infusing the dark fruits. It would benefit from more acidity towards the finish, but this constitutes a heady delight. Drink 2012-2018.Importer: The Sorting Table, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 603-1460