The 2012 Santa Barbara County Syrah combines fruit from five of the Syrah vineyards we work with. After blending trials, Petite Sirah, Mourvédre, Grenache and a small amount of Viognier were added for structure, aromatics and complexity. More than a sum of its parts, it is dark and rich. Exhibiting cherry, wild berry and violet aromatics, this wine is full and fruitful in the mouth, with underlying espresso and pepper flavors. Sharing the same farming and winemaking techniques as our vineyard designated wines, this Syrah can be enjoyed upon release or cellared for several years.
Composition:
80% Syrah
10% Petite Sirah
4% Grenache
3% Mourvédre
3% Viognier
Barrel Aging: Aged for 10 months in neutral oak barrels. Reds barrel racked once in spring.
Alcohol: 14.5% by Vol.
The 2012 Syrah bursts from the glass with dark red cherry, plum, smoke, lavender and sweet spices. Ample and juicy on the palate, the 2012 is an excellent choice for drinking over the next few years. The style is soft and fruit-forward, with no hard edges and terrific overall balance. -- Antonio Galloni 91 Points
Tasted from bottle, the 2012 Syrah Santa Barbara County is a year-in and year-out outstanding wine, as well as a smoking value. Loaded with notions of plum, blackberry, licorice, violets, and hints of olive, this medium to full-bodied, delicious, forward Syrah will drink nicely for 3-4 years. - Robert Parker 90 Points
Complete and deftly balanced, with a suppleness to the texture. The vivid red and dark berry flavors are focused and persistent. Drink now through 2022. 1,386 cases made. –JL - Wine Spectator Magazine 89 Points
