Tart blackberry, cracked pepper, pomegranate reduction. Fresh black currant, thyme sprig, homemade boysenberry jam. An impressively dense yet edgy procession of huckleberry, cherry pit, and licorice booms with extracted yet energetic luster while notes of bramble, sage, tree bark, and eucalyptus contribute a range of complex herbal overtones. Hints of leather and smoked meat playful impart layers of delicious savory character while cinnamon, cumin, and BBQ dry rub provide a delicious dusting of spice. Impressions of violet, dried rose, and lavender gently reveal subtle yet intriguing floral charm before a lingering suggestion of iron exposes pleasantly understated earthiness. Notably a bit reticent and shy on the nose while conversely quite expressive, deep, and serious on the palate; exhibiting a multidimensional and provocative presentation that juxtaposes lively fruit against a melange of gorgeous spicy and savory flavors. Medium bodied with soft yet persistent tannin carried by nicely elevated acidity. This 2019 Central Coast Syrah by Qupé Winery is a quintessential cool climate Rhône red from California.

Native to the Rhône Valley in Southeastern France where it thrives on the steep wind-swept slopes that tower above the Rhône River, Syrah is a legendary yet often misunderstood grape that has emerged as a tremendous success in vineyards throughout coastal California. This bottling, crafted by Qupé Winery using Syrah sourced primarily from Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo Counties, beautifully showcases the distinct fruity yet savory profile that cool climate Syrah can uniquely express. This wine leads with a deep dark-fruited core that is matched in intensity by a combination of wild herbal notes, smoky meaty qualities, complex spices, and delicate floral charm. It boasts outstanding varietal typicity and is highly reflective of its marine-influenced origins, and could easily be used as a reference-point wine for what Central Coast Syrah should taste like. Excellent.