Zaca Mesa was founded in the early 1970s by a group of friends who purchased a bit of land in Santa Barbara County and decided to plant vineyards there. Without many other vineyard properties in the area to learn from, several varietals were planted, including Cabernet, Zinfandel, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Syrah, and Sauvignon Blanc. After 2 decades of trial and error, the Zaca Mesa team decided that Rhone varietals (Syrah, Viognier, Grenache) grew best on their property. Today, Zaca Mesa only grows these Rhone varietals, specializing in Syrah.
Right now, we are offering Zaca Mesa's signature Syrah at a terrific sale price. This is 99% Syrah and 1% Viognier sustainably grown in Zaca Mesa's estate vineyards. The grapes are hand harvested and sorted, then placed in small open top bins and left to cold soak for several days. After fermentation, the wine is aged in French oak for 16 months.
Zaca Mesa Syrah 2009 displays rich blackberry, cassis, espresso, mocha, and signature sage spice flavors and aromas. The silky finish lingers from the ripe tannins and smoky oak. This wine is drinking great now and should hold up well for at least another 5 years. Pair with grilled lamb with rosemary and garlic, or bold cheeses.