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2018 Tensley Colson Canyon Vineyard Syrah

Not Currently In Auction

Latest Sale Price

March 17, 2024 - $46

Estimate

RATINGS

97Vinous / IWC

A wine of immense pedigree and stature... Soaring aromatics, dense fruit and beams of tannin shape a Syrah of intense richness and savory depth... Cedar, sweet pipe tobacco, iron and bright red fruit build into the palate-staining finish... Wow!!

97Jeb Dunnuck

...offers up a gorgeous bouquet of crème de cassis, smoked game, sappy flowers, and a kiss of bacon fat...full-bodied and beautifully textured, with bright acidity and a great finish.

95Wine Enthusiast

...shows incredible intensity on the nose, with dark berry, plum, cocoa, cola and light floral freshness. The palate is purely purple and black fruits, enhanced by crushed espresso bean and cracked pepper—a head-turner wine.

94Wine Spectator

Shows ample torque at the core, wrapped in multilayered flavors of blueberry and cherry, accented by licorice, garrigue and crushed rock notes, finishing with brooding yet polished tannins.

92-94The Wine Advocate

...warm black and blue fruits, coffee, prosciutto, sage and chocolate. Full-bodied, rich and intense in the mouth...firm, grainy tannins and good freshness, finishing long.

PRODUCER

Tensley

Tensley Wines was founded in 1998 in Santa Barbara County. Owned and run by Joey and Jennifer Tensley, the estate was established to focus on vineyard-designated Syrah. Today it is known for its many Syrahs, though Tensley also now makes Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Grenache.

REGION

United States, California, South Coast, Santa Barbara County

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.