2019 Bien Nacido Syrah

Appellation

Santa Maria Valley

Varietal

Syrah

Wine Enthusiast

Jeb Dunnuck

Vinous

Vineyard Sources

100% Bien Nacido Vineyard (block 11F) located in the Santa Maria Valley

Barrel Aging

Aged 21 months in 100% French oak, of which 50% is new

Cooperage

Francois Freres, Sirugue

Technical Data

Composition

100% Syrah (Estrella clone)

Alcohol %

14.1

Acidity

0.600 g/100mL

3.73

Harvest Brix

26.6

Harvest Date

10/14/19

Production

249 cases

Description

The iconic Bien Nacido Vineyard, which has a long history dating back to 1837, is a cool climate vineyard with rocky soils. While best known for producing critically acclaimed Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, it also produces fantastic Syrah.

The 2019 Bien Nacido Vineyard Syrah will stain your glass with a beautiful hue of opaque garnet. Aromas of dark fruits, black pepper, smoked meat and dark chocolate can't be missed. Black plum, blueberry and blackberry compote flavors are on full display in this big red giving way to hints of dark chocolate, anise and espresso on the finish. Pair with braised chicken, peppercorn steak or anything with bacon!

Wine Critic Reviews

"Intense and dark but not overly ripe aromas of black currant, blackberry and black plum are lifted by peppery spices and violet on the nose of this bottling. The palate is chalky yet smoothly polished in texture, framing the roasted berry, cassis and creamy chai spice flavors." ~ Wine Enthusiast "The 2019 Syrah Bien Nacido Vineyard emerges from an organically farmed block at the top of the ranch. It offers up copious blue/purplish fruit black pepper, lavender, menthol and spice. Rich and layered, with terrific depth, the 2019 is positively stellar. The 25% whole clusters work so well in adding layers of dimension, while not overpowering the balance." ~ Antonio Galloni's Vinous "More iodine, iron, leather, and peppery notes emerge from the 2019 Syrah Bien Nacido Vineyard, a classic expression of the site that's medium-bodied, has good concentration, ripe tannins, and a beautiful finish. This is one classy, elegant, yet concentrated Syrah that will keep for a decade." ~ Jeb Dunnuck