Our aim with our Santa Barbara County Syrah is to capture a precociously drinkable expression of the region’s cool-climate vineyards. This wine is just that. The 2022 vintage gave us a hot September, so there’s a deep and ample ripeness to this bottling. Still, our coastal vineyards held onto their earthy and savory Syrah qualities. The varietal fragrance is striking and pungent. There’s a complex profile of incense, suede leather, balsamic, and spicy root beer botanicals, while a deep layer of mocha and plum promises rich pleasure for the mouth. It for the mouth. It works out that way, too. The palate is suave and easy, with front-loaded dark fruits that glide into peppery game and chocolate.
100% Syrah source from Zaca Mesa (52%), Yellow Foxtrot (24%), Roll Ranch (14%), and Kessler-Haak (10%) Vineyards aged for 11 months in neutral French oak barrels.
Wine Advocate Review:
Perennially overperforming, the 2022 Syrah Santa Barbara County combines several notable vineyards in the Santa Maria Valley and Sta. Rita Hills, aged for 11 months in neutral barrique. The nose is classic and understated, combining meaty, leathery, herbal aromas with a dark-fruited undercurrent and beautiful purity. The palate is plush and borders on full-bodied, with a savory, tense and lifted finish. Anticipated Maturity: 2024-2028
