Santa Barbara Winery Syrah 2017 (750ml)

As has been for a few years, the backbone of this 2017 bottling is Syrah grown on steep wind-blasted slopes at John Sebastiano. This site provides loads of gamey, tobacco inflected flavor and tractor beam drinkability, with aromas that show incense smoke and pepper galore! For some textural power they blended in a bit of warmer-climate Syrah from Roll Ranch and a touch of Grenache, also from John Sebastiano. This blend offers a cross-section of everything they love about Syrah: great earthy fragrance, savory fruit, and a mid-weight feel that is quenching and delicious with a fine meal.

Critical Acclaim

RP91
Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate
The 2017 Syrah Santa Barbara has a medium ruby-purple color and is scented of blueberry and boysenberry with black plum, charcuterie, earth, violet and a minerally undercurrent. The palate is medium-bodied and elegantly styled with fresh blue and black fruits, an approachable tannic frame and great freshness, finishing long and layered. A delicate expression that could be a great introduction to Syrah for those who aren’t fans of the bigger styles.
JD90
Jeb Dunnuck

Leading off the Syrahs, the 2017 Syrah Santa Barbara County offers a Saint Joseph-like style as well as plenty of blue fruits, violets, bay leaf, and peppery aromas and flavors. It’s medium-bodied, has fine tannins, and a terrific sense of elegance.