2017 SAMSARA – SANTA BARBARA SYRAH (750ML)

92 Points – Wine Advocate

92 Points – Wine Enthusiast

ORIGIN | Santa Barbara, California

GRAPE | 88% Syrah, 12% Grenach

The 2017 Santa Barbara County Syrah embodies SAMsARA’s spicy/savory style while still retaining dark blue and black fruit flavors typical of Syrah.  75% whole-cluster fermentation adds texture, depth, and aromatic complexity.  Made with fruit from cool climate sites including: Zotovich, John Sebastiano, Donnachadh, Colson Canyon, and Zaca Mesa. 12% Grenache blended in for aromatics and mouthfeel.  Made in 100% neutral French oak.

ABOUT THE WINEMAKER | SAMsARA produces limited releases of Pinot Noir, Syrah, and Grenache from carefully selected micro-sites within Sta. Rita Hill’s most distinctive vineyards. The resulting wines are an interpretation of the tenuous balance between the power of natural elements beyond their control and the human desire to reach perfection.

New England natives, Dave and Joan Szkutak, share a fundamental love of travel and all things enological. They help guide SAMsARA as vintners and work closely with winemaker Matt Brady, supporting his creative decisions in both the vineyard and the cellar.

TASTING NOTES | 

92 Points – Wine Advocate
“The 2017 Syrah Santa Barbara County has a medium ruby-purple color and a nose of crushed black and blue berry fruits with touches of mint chocolate, olive and charcuterie. It’s medium-bodied with Goldilocks ripeness and savory accents, finely framed and finishing long with bright pops of freshness. It’s a lovely, understated style. 444 cases produced.” –EB, 10/30/2020

92 Points – Wine Enthsuiast
“Very tarry aromas of asphalt, black pepper dust and charred wood give a savory wrapping to the underlying blackberry tone of this county blend. There’s a tangy berry flavor to the palate, where peppery spices meet with wild thyme and green-herb flavors.” –MK, 7/1/2020