2012 Bien Nacido Syrah – Santa Maria Valley, CA –

Nose: Deep blueberry and boysenberry with notes of white pepper and smoked meat. 

Palate: Deep ripened plum and blueberry. Notes of vanilla, clove, lavender, and mint. This is full bodied with a crisp finish. Overall a very pure expression. 

Notes:
Vines planted in 1995. 
Co-fermented with 2-4% viognier to lend softer more floral tones. 
Vines are planted in rows east to west, located high above the valley floor. 
Aged for 18 months in 10% New French Oak. 

Drink: Now (2020) to 2025. 

Pairing: BBQ and smoked meats, braised meat, and rustic stew. 

Price: $55