Wild blueberry, green peppercorn, black licorice. Tart mulberry, cold charcoal, almost-ripe Damson plum. Deep and dark yet energetic eruptions of black currant, black raspberry, and cherry pit writhe with incredible youthful angst amidst a slew of sultry and savory suggestions of ancho chilies, black olive, and wild sage. Notes of fresh rosemary, anise, and bramble advance themes of herbal and natural complexity as bursts of crushed red pepper and paprika provide deliciously spicy overtones. Wafts of violet and iris emerge to impart a layer of provocative floral perfume that quickly relents behind more rugged impressions of iron, graphite, and grilled meat. Impressively vibrant, fresh, and lively on the palate while simultaneously possessing excellent concentration and depth; exhibiting outstanding breath and expressiveness without ever coming across the slightest bit heavy or overbearing. Medium plus in body with nicely elevated tannin backed by refreshing acidity. This 2018 Hinnrich's Vineyard Syrah by Luna Hart Wines is a remarkably bright and complex red from Ballard Canyon.

Located in the heart of Santa Barbara County between Buellton, Solvang, and Los Olivos, Ballard Canyon is currently the only AVA in the USA that has a majority of its vineyards dedicated to the production of Syrah. This bottling, crafted by Luna Hart Wines using Syrah sourced from Hinnrich's Vineyard in Ballard Canyon, showcases the exciting combination of verve and concentration that Syrah from this region has become famous for. While still quite young this wine is already booming with extracted yet enthusiastic fruit overlaid with fresh herbs, spices, and gorgeous savory charm. It is wholly authentic to both grape and place while managing exceptional freshness and finesse, and certainly has impressed us with both its complexity and balance. Well done.