2021 "Big Circle" Syrah

From one of the oldest vineyards in the Santa Maria Valley, the Syrah from Rancho Sisquoc is always darkly colored and well structured. The vineyard’s ideal position means the grapes have all the advantages a cool climate provides plus enough warmth to guarantee they reach full maturity - as it did in 2021. Upon harvest the fruit is allowed a long cool soak before inoculation followed by heavy, vigorous punch downs early on, and light and less often later in the fermentation cycle. This optimizes the color and richness without harsh tannins. Eighteen months barrel age, mostly in neutral French oak, ensured an integrated, complex red with a supple finish.

SCORE: 94 Vinous A. Galloni

The 2021 Syrah Big Circle is terrific. Dark and savory in the glass, the 2021 is super-expressive right out of the gate. Blackberry, gravel, dried herbs, lavender and exotic spice overtones are all dialed up. This exuberant yet vibrant Syrah has a ton to offer.