The 2008 Windthrow is a four vineyard blend of 36% Syrah, 29% Mourvedre, 18% Counoise, and 17% Grenache aged for 20 months in 36% new French oak. Underbrush, brier, earthy minerals, lavender, black cherry, and blueberry aromas inform the nose of a dense, layered, relatively forward, supple Rhone Ranger offering that can be approached now but will last for another 6-8 years. Cadaretta’s three submissions are all outstanding.Tel. (877) 810-4939; www.cadaretta.com