Wine Notes

“The grapes for this year’s Santa Barbara County Syrah come from vineyards all around the appellation. Sourced primarily from Hilltop Vineyard in the Sta, Rita Hills appellation, this wine brings together the many unique characteristics of Santa Barbara County’s microclimates. This wine is fruit-driven and round with floral notes on the nose and a core of blueberry, blackberry, violets and pepper. Look for hints of bacon and chocolate on the finish.”

91-93 Points From Robert Parker

“A finished barrel sample, the 2018 Syrah Santa Barbara County has a deep purple-black color and gregarious nose of gravel dust, cherry coulis, warm blueberries and loads of red fruit sparks with slowly opening nuances of cocoa, prosciutto and loads of exotic spices. It’s full-bodied, dense and powerful, flooding the mouth with lush, ripe fruits and with a frame of firm, grainy tannins and great freshness, finishing very long. This is a beast!”

90-93 Points From Antonio Galloni

“The 2018 Syrah is shaping up to be fabulous. I am not sure I have ever tasted a Tensley Syrah with this much energy and focus. Lavender, mint and spice meld into a core of blue/purplish fruit. Medium in body, nuanced and vibrant, the 2018 has so much to offer. I can’t wait to taste it from bottle. The 2018 has all the makings of a real overachiever.”

91 Points From Jeb Dunnuck

“Recently bottled, the 2018 Syrah Santa Barbara County comes from designated fruit sources as well as declassified single vineyard juice. It wa