Juicy blackberry, barbequed red meat, dark cherry compote. Dark plum, cracked peppercorn, crushed black currant. An impressively dense and inky display generously gushing with blueberry preserves, wild raspberry, and licorice highlights a profoundly extracted yet energetic attack awash with complex savory notes of smoked brisket, prosciutto, and tar. Hints of paprika, fennel, and tarragon further advance non-fruit character with a diverse array of herbs and spices that rise above gorgeous natural impressions of bramble, forest floor, and tree bark. Well integrated oak tones of vanilla, nutmeg, and cinnamon playfully provide a mildly decadent sheen that endures alongside deep floral perfume of violet oil, iris, and lavender. A final impression of limestone and saline minerality concludes the presentation with a firm backbone of coastal earthiness that is not even slightly overwhelmed by the immense concentration. Admirably broad-shouldered and muscular on the palate while remaining beautifully food friendly and well balanced; exhibiting a mouth-coating and robust presentation packed with outstanding boldness and structure. Full bodied with pronounced tannin kept fresh by elevated acidity. This 2018 Ballard Canyon Syrah by Stringer Cellars is a rugged and powerful red from Santa Barbara's Santa Ynez Valley.

Native to France's Rhone Valley and commonly found in the United States, Australia, and many regions all over the world, Syrah is a deeply-colored red wine grape prized for its ability to express a combination of complex fruit and savory components. This bottling, crafted by Stringer Cellars using Syrah sourced from Ballard Canyon, is an outstanding example of why this legendary grape has earned such high praise in this special corner of California's Central Coast. This wine broods with an immeasurably deep dark and red fruited core challenged for dominance by brambly herbs, delicious meatiness, and intriguing peppery spices. Although intense and powerful this still manages to express terrific freshness and balance, and has the structure to age well for at least 5-10 years. Outstanding.