Winemaker Derek Barnett decided to play around with his signature Syrah this year creating a Barrel Select version that uses the same clones and same winemaking techniques and even comes from the same sub-appellation as his usual popular bottling – but instead of mixing bought fruit and estate fruit made this a 6-barrel estate only version – and what a coup. Nose is mellow, meaty and white-peppery; palate has a lovely raspberry tone to it along with white pepper, strawberry and red currant … but it’s the pepper aspect here that is truly the star. Try the two wines side-by-side for a revelation in terroir versus blending.  Price: $35.00 – Rating: ****+