Syrah, 2013. Zaca Mesa
Appellation: Santa Ynez Valley, California
Wine tasting with Paul Kalemkiarian & Ed Masciana
Check out our website at http://www.wineofthemonthclub.com/
Get social with us to get exclusive coupons, giveaways, and of course, the wine experience of a lifetime.
Since its creation in 1973, Zaca Mesa has been one of the most innovative wineries in California. At the time of its founding, it was only the third winery in Santa Barbara County. Now, it’s got a lot more company, but its name is associated with many of the finest winemakers in California.
One of Zaca Mesa’s alumni was Ken Brown, now considered one of the best winemakers in the state. And the future owners of Au Bon Climat and Qupé used to work in the tasting room! The place was such a training ground for winemakers that it was nicknamed Zaca Mesa University.
Among their many firsts, Zaca Mesa were the first to plant Syrah in Santa Barbara County in 1978. One of their first vintages, 1993, was served at the White House. And today, they’re still considered one the best Syrah vineyards in the state.
Why? Well, it’s difficult to put into words the flavors of Zaca Mesa Syrah. Being one of the oldest Syrah vineyards in California, it simply has no equals. The grapes are just better than everybody else’s. And when you add the level of expertise they are known for in winemaking, it’s no wonder that this wine is just about as good as it gets.
First, you encounter an incredibly dense violet color that is almost opaque. The robe which hugs the glass as you swirl it is as exciting as the aromas that escape. Blueberry, rain-soaked earth, leather and dark chocolate are part of the endless swirl of flavors that are as dizzying as they are exciting.
