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2023 Bien Nacido Estate Syrah

Removed from a subterranean wine cellar; Purchased direct from winery; Consignor is original owner

Ends Sunday, 7pm Pacific

RATINGS

96Vinous / IWC

...has an alluring nose of bitter cherry, stemmy herbs, iron, exotic spices and menthol. It unleashes itself onto the palate with real old-world sensibility—a wine built on vertical structure and deep mineral character. Cocoa-powder-like tannins embrace the finish.

95The Wine Advocate

...palate is immediately compelling, opening with a black and blue fruited nose, supplemented by aromas of grilled meat, iron, purple flowers and graphite...palate is svelte and supple, effortlessly gliding across the palate with a quality measure of density and levity. It culminates with a sumptuous, rich finish tempered by tensile, focused energy and admirable restraint and complexity.

94James Suckling

...aromas of cracked peppercorns, bacon fat and cured game and a crunchy, minerally palate structured by steeped tea tannins, this is a wine of power and detail. Flavors of brambleberries, bruised blueberries and star anise...

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.

VINTAGE

2023 Bien Nacido Estate Syrah