The Arizona Republic article: "6 affordable masterpieces from vintners around globe" Mark Tarbell Special to the Republic Apr. 2, 2008 12:00 AM We talk and write about wine's taste, color and bouquet, but the greatest discovery is that it can be art. Most $10-$15 wines are made with commerce in mind, but occasionally there are surprises. Handcrafted wines tell a story that is complex, thought-provoking and pleasing all at once. Wines are an expression of the winemakers' souls and core beliefs, as well as of the place where the grapes were grown. While walking the aisles this week, bored with the California/Australian Cab/Merlot/Shiraz blah-blah-blah juice bombs, I found some masterpieces. ..... As with any art, there is a range of prices. These two wines are more expensive but represent an excellent value and new experiences: 2006 Page Springs Cellars "Vino de la Familia" Syrah/Petite Syrah/Viognier, Cornville, Ariz. ($21.99; 690 cases produced/California grapes) - The color is an almost opaque, dark royal ruby with deep purple. The aroma has lush berry fruit with smoky, creamy vanilla, cinnamon and wood. The taste is round and lush with a fine balance and a little spice on the finish. 90 points 2005 Caduceus "Primer Paso" Syrah/Sauvignon Blanc/Muscat, Cornville ($54.99; 300 cases produced/California grapes) - Maynard Keenan makes Caduceus in northern Arizona with California grapes. That's a story, a commitment, an expression of true passion. If that weren't enough, his wine is made in a fully restrained and delicate way. The color is an elegant vermillion and deep blue on the rim with dark garnet in the center. The aroma has spice, dark ripe berry fruit and smoke, all in balance, with a subtle complexity. The taste has berry fruit right up front, good acidity and freshness, pink peppercorn spice with a long fruit-acid finish. Amazingly restrained and more food-friendly than most California reds, it's a rare kind of California wine that doesn't have you sweating out the alcohol by the second sip. Hat's off to them! 93 points

Primer Paso and Vino de la Familia

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