2013 Qupé Ibarra-Young Vineyard Syrah

Qupé was named to honor the indigenous people of California’s Central Coast and Channel Islands, the Chumash. In Chumash language the word for the California poppy sounds like “kyoo-pay,” so estate founder Bob Lindquist gave the name a French spelling and used it for his label. Lindquist founded Qupé in 1982 after a dozen years working at Central Coast wine estates and wine shops. Qupé quickly earned a following for Chardonnay, though Lindquist’s passion is Rhone varieties. He is one of the pioneers of the Central Coast Rhone Rangers movement and has been influential in creating a market for well-made American Syrah, Grenache, Roussanne and Marsanne. Qupé grows grapes on its own San Luis Obispo County vineyards, and sources grapes from premier local vineyards including Bien Nacido Vineyard in Santa Maria Valley. Qupé makes red and white wines that win accolades from reviewers.

Santa Ynez Valley AVA is home to more wineries than any other area in Santa Barbara County. The appellation was established in 1983 and it includes a total of 76,800 acres, of which 1,500 acres are vineyards. Chardonnay is the dominant grape in this appellation, followed by Cabernet Sauvignon, Riesling, Pinot Noir, and Merlot. The appellation runs east and west with temperatures and microclimates changing significantly from warmer in the east to cool by the time the district gets close to the Pacific Ocean. In recent years Rhone-style wines have been successfully made here, and vineyards now are also planted to Syrah, Viognier, Roussanne, Grenache, Mourvedre and Marsanne.

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.