Sign In

2020 Bien Nacido Estate Syrah

Not Currently In Auction

Latest Sale Price

March 31, 2024 - $33

Estimate

RATINGS

95The Wine Advocate

...classic tar and violet with a core of blueberry jam and touches of powdered sugar, salami and cracked pepper...palate is full-bodied and powerful with loads of rounded tannins, integrated freshness and a long, perfumed finish streaked with botanical nuances.

95Wine Enthusiast

Dark yet fresh aromas of elderberry and violet are spiced by cracked pepper and tar on the focused nose of this estate bottling. The palate is very firm and tense, with a zesty acidity that cuts through those elderberry and dark-purple flower flavors.

93-95Jeb Dunnuck

...medium to full-bodied, nicely balanced Syrah has plenty of classic Bien Nacido gaminess and peppery notes as well as a solid core of dark berry fruits...good spine of acidity and a great finish.

90Vinous / IWC

...powerful, dense wine. Firm tannins wrap around a core of inky blue/purplish fruit. Severe late season heat is felt in the wine's potent, large-scaled tannins... Lavender, licorice, cloves and leather add to an impression of somber intensity.

REGION

United States, California, Central Coast, Santa Barbara County, Santa Maria Valley

Santa Barbara County is not an AVA, but a region just south of San Luis Obispo that includes the Santa Ynez Valley and Santa Maria Valley appellations. Wine has been produced in the area since the 18th century when Spanish missionaries planted vineyards. It wasn’t until the 1990s, however, that producers focused on growing premier grapes for fine wines. During the 1990s more than 10,000 acres of vineyards were planted, and today there are nearly 20,000 acres of vineyards. The region received a big bump in recognition and prestige when the popular film “Sideways” was shot there in 2004. Because the region is affected by maritime weather, it is relatively cool climate makes it ideal for Chardonnay. Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir and an increasingly adventuresome number of varietals are also grown successfully in Santa Barbara County.

TYPE

Red Wine, Syrah (Shiraz)

This grape is grown in milder climates and produces a medium-to full-bodied wine. It is also known as Shiraz, but should not be confused with Petit Sirah, which was developed by crossing Syrah with Peloursin.