Narrow Gate Vineyards “Dunamis” 2008: The volcanic soils found on the western slopes of the Sierra Nevada are showing great promise for distinctive wines, and this lively grenache (57%)-syrah (31%)-mourvèdre (12%) blend from a 13-acre biodynamic vineyard and family-run winery outside of Placerville is corroborating evidence. Balancing each of the GSM components with grace, the Dunamis opens on the nose with dark red fruit and peppery spice (the syrah), then gives way to tart cherry and tobacco on the tongue (the mourvèdre), all the while making your mouth water with bright acidity (the grenache). The name, which is Greek for “power,” is a nod to the explosive origins of the mineral-rich rhyolite soils as well as a bow to the Holy Spirit of the Christian tradition, for the owners wear their religion on the label, including the biblically referencing name Narrow Gate. See narrowgatevineyards.com.