2005 Copain Syrah Harrison Clarke (USA, California, Central Coast, Santa Ynez Valley)

Dark ruby and purple color. Nose is more shy than I remember and is clearly dominated by pepper and blueberry. Peppery on the palate with blue- and blackberry as well as some licorice. Seems more acidic than I remember, very fresh. Also seems like this is closing down right now. Reminds me a lot of a recent 2003 Tardieu Laurent St. Joseph, but it's not quite as good. I think this is very good, but not near as good as some of the more profound Copain Syrahs like Hawk's Butte.

2005 Williams Selyem Pinot Noir Central Coast (USA, California, Central Coast)

Ruby red slightly cloudy color followed by a nose of cranberry, nutmeg, and sour cherry. Maybe even a hint of jasmine and peet moss. Lush palate of sour cherry, red currant, and spice with a good shot of acidity that finished very nicely. Seems like this could pass for a village burgundy or good Bourgogne if it wasn't for the pronounced spice. Very good effort and I prefer this vintage of WS CC over the prior two. Certainly a great QPR at release price.

2005 Copain Syrah Harrison Clarke (USA, California, Central Coast, Santa Ynez Valley)

Dark ruby to garnet color. Distinct nose of pepper and (brace yourself) garrigue and a little kirsch. Great texture with enticing flavors of kirsch, earth, and a little licorice and tobacco. The finish is medium long, but lingers with nice fruit and dried herb flavors. The acidity seems lively and fresh. If you think that this sounds like a Chateauneuf-du-Pape, you are right. As bizarre as it sounds, I think this wine is a ringer for a very young Chateauneuf du Pape with high Mourvedre content (think 2003 Beaucastel). Superb wine with lots of upside potential.