Winemaker Notes
The wine’s lifted aromatics of red and blue fruits are balanced out by lightly smoked rosemary and freshly ground white pepper with a touch of black olive brine that draws you in to the first sip of fresh bright blueberries and teriyaki lamb jerky. The wine offers a slight grip on the palate, encouraging another sip. Pair with grilled lamb chops with salt, white pepper, and rosemary.
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2021 Syrah Estate, vinified with 40% whole clusters, has a medium to deep ruby color and pretty aromatic nuances of peppercorn, earth, mint and cocoa and a core of blueberry and blackberry fruit. The medium-bodied palate is concentrated and detailed with chalky tannins, sparks of mouthwatering acidity and a long, fragrant finish.
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Wine Enthusiast
This is cool-climate Syrah at its finest, full of energy, umami and spice. Concentrated aromas of boysenberry and white and black pepper make a juicy nose. The palate wraps generous, complex flavors of berry, rosemary and clove into a grippy package.
Editors' Choice
Marked by an unmistakable deep purple hue and savory aromatics, Syrah makes an intense, powerful and often age-worthy red. Native to the Northern Rhône, Syrah achieves its maximum potential in the steep village of Hermitage and plays an important component in the Red Rhône Blends of the south, adding color and structure to Grenache and Mourvèdre. Syrah is the most widely planted grape of Australia and is important in California and Washington. Sommelier Secret—Such a synergy these three create together, the Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre trio often takes on the shorthand term, “GSM.”
A superior source of California Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, Sta. Rita Hills is the coolest, westernmost sub-region of the larger Santa Ynez Valley appellation within Santa Barbara County. This relatively new AVA is unquestionably one to keep an eye on.
The climate of Sta. Rita Hills is a natural match for Chardonnay and Pinot noir, thanks to the crisp ocean breezes and well-drained, limestone-rich calcareous soil. Here, grapes ripen just enough, while retaining brisk acidity and harmonious balance.