Arrays of 40 nm Bi2-xSbxTe3 nanowires (x similar to 0.7, density similar to5 x 10(10) cm(-2)) have been synthesized. The individual wires are crystalline, relatively homogeneous, and highly textured in a <110> direction after thermal treatment. Wires containing Sb exhibit incomplete wetting of the alumina templates in which they are grown (see Figure). The composition, crystallinity, and morphology of the nanowires can also be manipulated.