The 2012 Syrah Purisima Mountain Vineyard is a dark, meaty wine. Black cherry, mocha, plum, smoke, violets, new leather and tobacco are some of the many notes that meld together in this rich, resonant Syrah from Steve Beckmen. Voluptuous and intense, the 2012 can be enjoyed now, although it will be even better in another year or so. The 2012 was aged in 100% French oak barrels, 35% new.

Made from the clone that UC Davis extracted from Australian Shiraz, this is all about intense fruit. Aromas of licorice and blackberries give way to a palate lush with smoked blueberry, mocha, chocolate pudding, black rocks and a minty midpalate. The tannins will last awhile but this is ready now.