In 2009, winemaker Bruce McGuire blended fruit from the warmer climate Stolpman Vineyard in Ballard Canyon and Joughin Vineyard with the cooler climate Lafond Vineyard and Hill Top Ranch Vineyard. Both warm and cool climate sites in Santa Barbara County can retain the complex flavors and fine-boned pepper spice accents that make Central Coast Syrah so compelling. Most of the wine was aged in small 60 gallon French and Hungarian barrels as Syrah benefits from ample barrel time. Pair with rustic fare, slightly charred grilled meats, spring lamb, seared Ahi, and washed rind cheeses.
This bottling of Syrah is a blend of multiple vineyards throughout the Santa Ynez Valley. It highlights the white pepper and lavender forward flavors produced by fruit from the cooler, western portion of the valley. It also highlights the jammier full fruit character experienced in the back of the mouth courtesy of fruit from the warmer, eastern part of the valley.
