2005 K Vintners, Guido
Charles Smith’s long awaited 2005 reserve wines have finally arrived, and the star is . . . a Super Tuscan? That’s right—using fruit from Dean Morrison’s Morrison Lane vineyard, Charles made only 28 cases of this Sangiovese-Syrah blend, embracing the very Tuscan flavors of anise, cherry & tobacco. Like all of Charles’ reserve wines, Guido offers a lot of pleasure now but will definitely benefit from another five years or so in the cellar. It’s $45 and, thanks to Charles and the local distributor, we will be able to get a little bit more.

2005 Syncline, Cuvee Elena
Another of our favorite winemakers, James Mantone, is responsible for this gem, the flagship wine for Syncline, a delicious blend of their very best Grenache, Mourvedre and Syrah. James’ goal was to blend the classic notes of spice, blackberries and animal from the Mourvedre with the bright raspberry of Grenache, all tied together with the richness and garrigue aromas of Syrah. If you don’t choose to open it at Thanksgiving this year, this wine will age another five years or more with little trouble. It’s $35, and, although only 50 cases were made, there’s a bit more available.