“Jaffurs is dedicated to producing fine wine with a New World independence. For over two decades we have specialized in Rhône-style wines from the premier vineyards in Santa Barbara County. All wines are handcrafted at our winery in downtown Santa Barbara, California.”
“Jaffurs Wine Cellars is dedicated to producing great Rhône varietal wines with a New World independence. Our wines – Syrah, Grenache, Petite Sirah, Mourvedre, Viognier, and Roussanne – are among the best in the county. Founder Craig Jaffurs produced his first professional wines during the 1994 harvest. All of our wines are carefully made in small lots. Approximately 5,000 cases are produced each year. We work closely with our growers in the Santa Ynez, Ballard Canyon, Santa Rita Hills, Los Alamos, and Santa Maria regions. We limit vineyard yields and require that optimal farming practices are observed. All of our wines are crushed, pressed, cellared, and bottled in our Santa Barbara facility. Visit us for a glimpse of world class winemaking in the heart of the city. 2018 was our 25th harvest! …”
THE WINES: SANTA BARBARA COUNTY SYRAH
Today I’m bringing you 3 Santa Barbara County Syrahs. Winery notes come from their websites, unless otherwise indicated. Any errors are mine and mine alone.
2020 Stolpman Vineyards Originals Syrah, Ballard Canyon AVA, Santa Barbara County, 14.1% ABV, $40 (#1435)
Winemaker’s Notes: “The 2020 Originals impresses with its sheer scope: a vast spectrum from lifted to candied red fruit immediately enters into an exotic, forested wilderness. Meaty, smoky umami and sangre awaken the carnal appetite. All of these sensations thrust into overdrive while the wine is young and within a few years the forces will unite into one beautiful being. Certainly one of the most age-worthy wines from the heralded 2020 vintage, which makes sense, as it is the very last cuvee from 2020 to be released. ”
Wine Enthusiast – 97 points: “The 2020 vintage took this bottling from older vines to another level. Light game, plum paste, charred meat and white-pepper aromas lead into a palate of pure meat, roasted elderberry and woodsmoke. The richness is balanced by firm tannins. Drink now–2040.” — Matt Kettmann
My Review: Very dark in the glass. A delicious bouquet of blackberries, buttered popcorn, and dirt. Opened up into a full bodied, yet soft, smooth palate of crushed tart berries, plum and violets with a touch of alcohol on the finish. June and August 2024
2019 Jaffurs Syrah, Bien Nacido Vineyard, Santa Maria AVA, Santa Barbara County, 14.9% ABV, $55 (#1436)
Winemaker’s Notes: “Planted across two blocks up the hillsides overlooking Santa Maria Valley, Bien Nacido is our coolest-climate Syrah vineyard. The 2019 is a dark, full-bodied wine showing blackberry, black current, crushed pepper, and violet. Bright acidity and a supple mid-palate texture with mineral tension and a long, saline finish. This is a classic Bien Nacido Syrah that needs 2-3 years in bottle to show at its best and will easily age an additional 10.”
Wine Enthusiast – 94 points: “Tightly wound aromas of blackberry, dried beef, packed purple flowers, and light tar make for a dense though not overly ripe nose on this bottling from the historic vineyard. The wine is also dense and chalky on the palate, with black-fruit and blueberry flavors that are detailed in pepper, soy, and lavender. A comforting hit of vanilla shows on the finish.” — Matt Kettmann
My Review: Dark, rich garnet in the glass, almost purple. Bright crushed berries, rose petal and mocha on the nose. Tongue coating palate of cherry and berry with a complex, menthol finish with a touch of tobacco. This was pretty darn good! I’d like to visit this winery! April & September 2024
2017 Beckmen Vineyards Syrah, Purisima Mountain Vineyard, Ballard Canyon AVA, Santa Barbara County, 14.7 ABV, $37 (#1437)
Winemaker’s Notes: “Dark chocolate, plum, blackberry, vanilla, black pepper, grilled meats, and game are hallmarks of Purisima Mountain Syrah.”
Wine Enthusiast – 93 points: “This is a classic expression of Ballard Canyon’s Goldilocks appeal, blending the rich potential of warmer-weather Syrah with cooler-climate freshness. Aromas of black cherry, fudge and even butterscotch lead to a palate were oaky caramel and cappuccino flavors are cut by crisp pepper spice.” — Matt Kettmann
My Review: Very dark in the glass. Blueberry on the nose. Dark and lean on the palate. I liked this wine, despite it not being as fruity as some of our Central Coast Syrahs. July 2024
THE TASTING ROOMS: SANTA BARBARA COUNTY SYRAH
Stolpman Vineyards Tasting Options: Reservations are required for tastings at the winery or at the Los Olivos Patio, which is open daily from 11am to 4pm. $25 Tasting Fee
Jaffurs Wine Cellars winery and tasting room is located at 819 E. Montecito St., Santa Barbara. Open Monday – Sunday 11am to 5:00pm t: (805) 962-7003, e: info@jaffurswine.com
Beckmen Vineyards: “A working vineyard. A country escape.Open Daily 11am – 5pm Our red barn winery, tasting decks, gazebos, and duck ponds overlooking the Thomas & Judith Beckmen Estate Vineyard provide an idyllic wine country setting for savoring our handcrafted wines. We invite you to join us for a wine tasting, vineyard and winery tour, bottle service at our gazebos, dock, or pondside lounge, or a private tour and wine tasting.”
Last August, when I went on my “Sideways” tour in search of Ballard Canyon Syrahs, we stopped at Stolpman. I wrote all about it here: https://decantingmonterey.com/stolpman-delivers-a-world-class-experience-sideways-part-3/. But there was one Syrah they didn’t have open and would not open for me to taste – their Hilltops Syrah. I purchased one to taste later. And we did. I think we probably should have let it sit a bit longer, but curiosity got the best of me.
I won’t repeat everything I wrote up about Stolpman in my last post, but encourage you to check it out to learn more. Let’s just get to the Hilltops. Today I am reviewing just the one Stolpman wine. Winery notes come from their webpage, where you can also purchase their wines. Any errors are mine and mine alone.
2017 Stolpman Vineyards Hilltops Syrah, Ballard Canyon AVA, Santa Barbara County, 14.1% ABV, $52 (#893)
“We first vineyard designated this cuvee from the modern-day Hilltops block in 2008, only 4 years after replanting the Estate’s center ridge to a variety of our favorite Syrah strains and clones. Since then, we have refined the Hilltops cuvee into a tight selection of our favorite micro-blocks within the greater hilltop. Prior to 2008, the Hilltops wine came from a barrel selection of Syrah from all three ridges on the vineyard. Those grapes are now blended into the main Estate Grown Syrah cuvee.
VINTAGE
“2019 marked the second vintage in a row without harvest-time heat spikes. Facial Expressions around the team conveyed our shared thoughts and feelings without saying a word – a certain giddiness that we had a shot at replaying 2018 armed with that year of heat-free experience. And, the acids were hanging even higher and fresher than 2018. The Tell of the vintage is extremely energetic, high-toned red wine that will age well over a decade.
SENSORY
“Opaque tarry dark fruit kissed with lavender and backed with sage and mint. Fine, feathery and elegant with a playful prettiness in its youth – but we can’t wait to check in on the 2019 Hilltops in 3-5 years once unfurled.”
My Review: Slightly sweet nose of raspberry, yeast, lavender, cocoa and alcohol. Rich plum, blackberry, some vanilla. Improved after opening up. I do think we should have waited to open this to get its full potential, but we liked it anyway. Love me my Ballard Canyon AVA Syrahs! November 2022Visit: You can taste Stolpman wines at their tasting room in the center of Los Olivos: 2434 Alamo Pintado Avenue. You can make a reservation on-line or give them a call at 1-805-688-0400. I reserved on-line and it was very easy! We sat on a picnic bench in the shade. As I said before, “If you can only stop at one place to taste wines in Los Olivos, I’d definitely stop here!”
My recent trip to Los Olivos reminded me that I have a couple of wines from my April 2022 family reunion still to post. I’m not sure who brought us the Greg Norman Estates wine, but a niece-in-law brought the Jonata wine. While I was stuck at the older siblings table drinking a fine Burgundy (not my wheelhouse), the junior cousins were enjoying this delicious big red blend. I almost missed out!
Jonata was on my list of wineries to visit during my recent trip, but, while their wine came from Ballard Canyon AVA, their tasting room was closer to the coast. I’ll put it on my list for next time. Be sure to check out their website below for all details.
About Greg Norman Estates: “Greg Norman, known as much for his entrepreneurial spirit in the boardroom as his dominance on the golf course, is arguably the most successful athlete-turned-businessman. His unyielding approach to both golf and life earned him the nickname, The Great White Shark. Created from a family passion and strengthened by determination, Greg Norman Estates, founded in 1996, is a collection of fine wines sourced from stunning wine regions in California, New Zealand, and Greg’s homeland of Australia. The selected growing regions are appreciated for the incredible wines they produce and the personal influence they have had on the Norman family over Greg’s many years professionally touring the world. A strong believer in the role of wine as part of an active, easygoing lifestyle, Greg’s aim is to produce approachable yet bold wines to be enjoyed by family, fans and wine enthusiasts alike.”
About Jonata: “The Jonata name refers to an 1845 Mexican land grant, Rancho San Carlos de Jonata, which covers expansive territory across the Santa Ynez Valley. The winery’s estate can be found at the heart of this area…”
“…THE 30-MILE CORRIDOR of the Santa Ynez Valley offers up a diverse array of personalities for grapes and terroir. The warmer area in the eastern section—known as Happy Canyon—is producing revelation-worthy Bordeaux varieties. Meanwhile, on the east-to-west foothills of Buellton, the Sta. Rita Hills serves as a mecca for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. But for Rhône varieties, there may be no better AVA than Ballard Canyon not only in the Valley, but perhaps anywhere in the United States. Ballard Canyon, running north and south, gets the best of both regions, with a cooling marine influence from the west blended with the moderation of the warmer Happy Canyon. The result of this mixed climate puts this region on the map as Syrah country. There are less than 20 Ballard Canyon wine estates: Some sit on limestone, some on clay, and some on sand (or a combination of the three). At Jonata’s 586-acre estate, the farm pastures are lined with goats, sheep, and chickens. Off of the ranch, 84 vines are planted to grapes on rectangular-shaped Careaga sandstone. Winemaker Matt Dees, a former plant science major at the University of Vermont, began making wine 20 years ago and traversed from Australia to Napa to New Zealand before he began working for Jonata Owner Stan Kroenke in 2004…” Click on About Jonata above if you want to read the whole Somm Journal article about Ballard Canyon, Jonata, and its winemaker Matt Dees.
Today, I am presenting just 2 wines. Winery notes come from their website, unless otherwise indicated. Any errors are mine and mine alone. Sadly, my tasting notes are from my own memory and rather skimpy. When 25 people are dining at your house for 3 days in a row, something has to give!
2017 Greg Norman Estates Pinot Noir, Santa Barbara, 13.9% ABV, $14 (#845)
Winery Notes: “Vivid aromas of fresh strawberry and ripe red cherry supported by sweet clove and forest floor notes. The palate is juicy with bright flavors that mirror the nose. The well balanced, lively acidity that is a hallmark of Pinot Noirs from Santa Barbara makes it an ideal partner with many cuisines.” 12 months in seasoned French oak and stainless steel.
My Notes: I don’t recall much about this wine except that it seemed fairly representative of an inexpensive, Central Coast Pinot Noir.
2016 Jonata Todos Red Wine, Ballard Canyon AVA, Santa Ynez AVA, Santa Barbara County, 14.9% ABV, $50 (#846)
Winery Notes: “Lovely balance between savory and sweet. Blackberry and black cherry, Mesquite and black truffle. Notes of violets, pepper and five spice powder. Floral, fruit-driven and effusively aromatic. Smoky, sweet and decadent with a massive core of black fruit. Dusty tannins start early and slowly encompass the entire palate. Earthy and complex, but ultimately round and generous with tannins that stretch the fruit to greater lengths. Tremendous grip. Absolutely beautiful today with some air. A decadent and towering Todos. 50% Syrah, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Petite Sirah, 8% Petit Verdot, 5% Sangiovese, 2% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc, 1% Viognier, 1% Sauvignon Blanc, 1% Sémillon. 2,426 Cases Produced. Matt Dees, Winemaker 95 Points Jeb Dunnuck | 92 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous.”
My Notes: Just from memory, I recall this as a big, voluptuous wine. Resplendent with delicious dark, jammy berries, smooth on the palate. I liked this wine.
Greg Norman Estates, located in Paso Robles, has no opportunity for public tastings.
Tasting Jonata Wines – check out the EXPERIENCES tab on their website. Tastings are by appointment only: “JONATA wine experiences are offered at our sister winery The Hilt Estate in their new tasting room The Barn. The Hilt Estate is a dramatic property located within a 30 minute drive west of JONATA in Santa Barbara County’s Sta. Rita Hills AVA. Located just miles from the Pacific Ocean near the intersection of the historic Highway 1 and Santa Rosa Road, The Barn at The Hilt Estate is ideally situated as the starting or ending point for a Santa Barbara wine trip.
“With wines from two renowned estates—JONATA and The Hilt—The Barn at The Hilt Estate offers one of the most diverse lineups of wine in Santa Barbara County. From highly acclaimed pinot noirs and chardonnays from The Hilt to JONATA’s sought after Bordeaux varietals such as cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc and Rhône varietal syrah, there is something for every palate…”
This is the final post in my “Sideways” tour in Los Olivos. I wanted to visit a couple of tasting rooms at their wineries for the true Ballard Canyon experience, but our time was extremely limited. And we had to drive to Buellton (yes, Buellton!) to spend the night. Luckily, Beckmen was kind of on the way! We drove from downtown Los Olivos along back roads and a long driveway to beautiful Beckmen Vineyards and their tasting room. I was grateful to them for being flexible on our arrival time (I probably changed it 3 times!). We felt like total tourists, bumbling around the property trying to find the entrance to the tasting room.
The tasting room has such a picturesque setting – with the outdoor seating area overlooking a pond. By the time we got there, it was extremely hot outside. We decided to taste indoors in the air conditioning, rather than outside, enjoying the view. We were met by Tasting Room Associate Dannika, who was extremely knowledgeable about all the wines, the owner, and the history. She was very engaging and professional. I’d love to go back on a not-so-hot day and enjoy more of their wines – and the view from the deck.
About Beckmen: “Beckmen Vineyards began after Tom and Judy Beckmen left their innovative electronic music company Roland Corp, US to become pioneers of California wine. With youngest son Steve as Winemaker, and oldest son Jeff joining as Director of Sales later on, Beckmen Vineyards is a family owned and operated winery. Since 1994, we’ve established ourselves as a benchmark Santa Barbara County grower and producer. Our consistent quality vintage after vintage keeps us a favorite of critics, tastemakers, and collectors. Our wines have filled the cellars and tables of the country’s finest restaurants and houses (including the White House).
“Beckmen wines are crafted almost exclusively from our two vineyards, the Thomas and Judith Beckmen Estate Vineyard in Los Olivos District AVA and Purisima Mountain Vineyard in Ballard Canyon AVA. Farming over 150 acres of vines, we view every vintage as another opportunity to grow our legacy as a world-class winery by creating wines that future generations will enjoy. Currently, we’re proud to be hosting wine lovers seven days a week, providing unforgettable experiences at our beautiful winery and tasting room in the Santa Ynez Valley.”
I learned some notable things about the Beckmens, part of the original Rhône Rangers. Dannika shared that the Beckmens were the first to make a Rosé and the first to bottle Grenache as a single varietal in Santa Barbara County, paving the way for many others who have followed. You can read more about the Beckmens in this Forbes article from 2019.
We recently received a newsletter from Steve Beckmen in honor of International Grenache Day. He was offering a special on 3 of his highly rated Grenache bottlings and said this:
“…For many vintages, our Block Eight Grenache was one of the most intense and exotic Grenache wines that we produced. That is not surprising given the smaller berries and clusters that this old head trained block produces. Sadly, the 2019 Block Eight Grenache might be one of the last bottlings of this wine as intense heat and drought have had an effect on these vines. If you’re a fan of Block Eight, you’ll want to take advantage of this opportunity.
“The 2020 Grenache Libre is the first vintage of this wine, produced from a new head trained block of Grenache combined with fruit from Block Eight with 35% whole cluster. In his 94 point rating, Jeb Dunnuck described the wine as having ” Châteauneuf-like notes of ripe red and black fruits, dried herbs, graphite, and loamy earth all emerge from the glass, and it hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness, fine yet present tannins, terrific balance, and a great finish.
“The Purisima Mountain Vineyard Grenache has been a fixture in our portfolio since the beginning. 2020 also garnered 94 points from Dunnuck. It’s a truly great vintage that he describes as “wonderfully balanced, with ripe, sweet tannins and the rare quality of Grenache that brings richness yet with no sensation of weight or heaviness…”
I also want to share this quote about why the Ballard Canyon AVA is so special for Syrah from a 2014 interview with Steve Beckmen in The Wine Write: “Ballard Canyon is a special place, and we’re extremely excited about the AVA designation. We really enjoy working with the great group of producers and growers in Ballard Canyon. We all believe that having California’s first dedicated Rhone (Syrah) focused AVA will help in the promotions of our wines. Some of the most respected wineries and vineyards in Santa Ynez are within our Ballard Canyon group. We have a few newly released wines with the new AVA on the label, and one of our new Syrahs uses the new Ballard Canyon bottle…response to those has been really positive.”
They also have a line of natural wines – 1NGREDIENT – which are single ingredient and aged in clay pots. The only other place I have experienced this in the U.S. is with Wrath’s Falanghina.
I don’t want to leave our “Sideways” tour without mentioning our dinner at The Hitching Post 2. The menu was as expected, heavy on the steaks. Two of us meat eaters enjoyed delicious steaks (I have the smallest filet mignon) with all the fixings. It was quite a delicious meal. My steak was prepared perfectly. I would definitely eat there again. The restaurant is run quite efficiently and it was packed, which I found a bit surprising for a weeknight. We stopped to check out the bar on our way in and out, just to refresh movie scenes in our minds.
Today I am presenting 7 Beckmen Vineyards wines. Winery notes come from their website, unless otherwise noted.
I’ll also add an 8th wine from dinner here – The Hitching Post Syrah (#835). I am not sure of the vintage or even that it was “BIG CIRCLE”. It might be fun to do a tasting of Hitching Post wines on a future visit. According to the winery’s website, “”BIG CIRCLE” is our Santa Barbara Syrah that features the fruitiness and acidity of our cool climate, combined with the body and broad flavors brought on by warm days during the ripening season, creating a full bodied and lively wine.” While our food at The Hitching Post 2 was out of this world, the house Syrah just could not compare to all the great wines we tasted all day. I don’t think I could even finish it – and that is all I will say. I’m sure they make some good ones – that glass just wasn’t it.
2021 Beckmen Vineyards Purisma Mountain Vineyard Grenache Rosé, Ballard Canyon AVA, Santa Barbara County, 13.4% ABV, $29 (#828)
Winery Notes: “Bright lifted aromas and flavors of watermelon, cranberry, strawberry and citrus highlight the 2021 PMV Grenache Rosé. The cooler vintage provided great acidity that carries the impressive flavors on the very long finish. Our trademark creamy texture and the wines’ impeccable balance make this an epic vintage of our Rosé. Drink this now and over the next 2-3 years. Crafted from 100% certified biodynamic grapes.”
My Review: Brownish rose in the glass. A perfumed nose of gardenia and watermelon. Crisp, cold, refreshing. An excellent rosé. Very enjoyable. August 2022
2020 Beckmen Vineyards Purisma Mountain Vineyard Viognier, Ballard Canyon AVA, Santa Barbara County, 13.5% ABV, $40 (#829)
Winery Notes: “One of our favorite vintages ever for this wine, the 2020 is fantastic and everything we expect out of our Viognier. Outgoing aromas of apricot, honeysuckle, jasmine, white flowers, and a touch of white pepper show the full array of Viognier aromatics. The mouth balances richness and elegance, creaminess with a touch of acid, showing how truly great our Viognier can be. The flavors glide over the palate with stone fruits, apricot, white flower, and a mineral note that finishes incredibly long.
We cannot express how excited we are to release the 2020 PMV Viognier! It should continue to drink beautifully for the next 5-7 years or more. Crafted from 100% certified biodynamic viognier.”
My Review: Light golden in color. Nice perfume on the nose. A very tasty palate of honeysuckle and citrus. Crisp and delicious. August 2022
2019 Beckmen Vineyards Estate Block Eight Grenache, Ballard Canyon AVA, Santa Barbara County, 15.2% ABV, $65 (#830)
Winery Notes: “There is always an exotic side to the Block 8 Grenache that separates it from our other bottlings. It is one of our most intense Grenache wines we produce, which is not surprising based on the smaller berries and clusters that this old, head trained, own rooted vineyard delivers. Complex aromas of candied orange, violets, white pepper, and red fruits are lifted and expressive. The mouth shows its usual richness and structure with red and black fruits, dried flowers, and spices that are deep and concentrated. A terrific vintage of Block 8 Grenache that should age for the next 12-15 years or more.” See the box above for more info – now is the time to snap this wine up!
My Review: Transparent ruby in the glass. ripe and bright due to the long growing season. Heavier than most Grenache. Pretty darn delicious. A cut above most Central Coast Grenache wines. As it should be since Steve Beckmen was the first to bottle it as a single varietal. August 2022
2019 Beckmen Vineyards Purisma Mountain Vineyard Block Six Syrah, Ballard Canyon AVA, Santa Barbara County, 14.8% ABV, $75 (#831)
Winery Notes: “Block Six was the first section of Purisima Mountain Vineyard to be farmed biodynamically starting in 2002 and is the highest elevation block in the vineyard featuring significant deposits of chalky limestone. These factors contribute to a wine that has consistently been our finest Syrah bottling.
“Classic Block Six Syrah aromas of game, pepper, blackberry, chocolate, and mineral highlight the 2019 vintage. Another stellar year for this wine, the palate is packed with more spice, dark fruits, chocolate, and plum with amazing texture, fine tannins, and balanced acidity. Delicious as usual, the 2019 should age beautifully for the next 25-30 years. Crafted from 100% certified biodynamic grapes.” Vinous – 93 points
My Review: By now, it is getting late in our day. Rich berry and smooth – one of the top Syrahs I have tasted today. Very elegant and impressive. I took one home! August 2022
2019 Beckmen Vineyards Purisma Mountain Vineyard Syrah, Ballard Canyon AVA, Santa Barbara County, $39 (#832)
Winery Notes: “The cool 2019 growing season produced a very savory vintage of PMV Syrah. Cured meats, game, roasted earth, pepper, blackberry, and coco highlight the aromas of the 2019. Elegant and rounded on the palate (reminiscent of the very successful 2015 vintage), the mouth shows off sweet black fruits, dark chocolate, game, mocha, and pepper with fine tannins that carry the flavor through the very long, savory finish. A bit young and tight upon release, the 2019 should be decanted or aged for the short term and will age beautifully for the next 15-18 years or longer. Crafted from 100% certified biodynamic syrah grapes.” Vinous – 94 points
My Review: This Syrah was good, but, to my overused palate, at first it tasted more like a Côte-Rôtie-style Syrah co-fermented with a touch of Viognier. Palate of berries and a touch of ash with a tart finish. It really isn’t fair to taste this at the end of a day of tasting and side by side with the Block Six. I’ll have to do a retaste of this 94-point wine. August 2022
2020 Beckmen Vineyards 1NGREDIENT Sauvignon Blanc, Ballard Canyon AVA, Santa Barbara County, $50 (#833)
Winery Notes: “A natural wine, fermented and aged on the skins for 10 months in amphora, then hand bottled and hand labelled. Learn more about this wine and our natural 1NGREDIENT label.
Big and intense upon opening with candied lemon, mineral and citrus aromas, this thought-provoking wine fills the mouth with citrus fruits and saline flavors. The extended skin contact brings youthful tannins and juicy acidity that provide the wine with ample structure creating an edgy mouthfeel which supports the intense flavors. The wine opens up with some air or decanting to show citrus fruits, saline, green apple, and Asian pear flavors and aromas with a broad more rounded mouthfeel as the tannins integrate into the wine. The wine’s amazing acidity carries the flavors on the long, complex finish. Surprisingly full and rich for its moderate alcohol, the 2020 1NGREDIENT Sauvignon Blanc is a step up in quality from the successful inaugural release from the 2018 vintage. It should evolve beautifully for the next decade or more. Crafted from 100% certified biodynamic grapes.”
Wine Enthusiast – 92 points: “Only one ingredient—Sauvignon Blanc grapes—went into this 63-case bottling, which was aged in clay pots. The intriguing result is a slightly cloudy, yellow wine, loaded with preserved Meyer lemon, crushed clay and baked orange aromas on the nose. The palate shows melon and nectarine as well as tangerine and grapefruit pith flavors. Unique.” Matt Kettmann 9/2022
My Review: Cloudy in the glass with a kind of yeasty weirdness. I admire a winery that plays with clay pot fermentation and aging. Would have been fun to try the others. Another time! August 2022
2019 Beckmen Vineyards SYV Cabernet Sauvignon, Ballard Canyon AVA, Santa Barbara County, $39 (#834)
Winery Notes: “It is always tough to follow a great vintage, but the 2019 SYV Cabernet Sauvignon is a great follow up to the outstanding 2018 vintage. More focused on our estate fruit from the Thomas and Judith Beckmen Vineyard, the 2019 shows classic aromas and flavors of cherry, black currant, vanilla, tobacco, and earth. The mouthfeel is smooth, round, and elegant, with great acidity from the cooler vintage in 2019 that carries the fruit on the very long finish. Approachable and ready to drink now, the wine will age wonderfully over the next 12-15 years.” Vinous – 93 points
My Review: With a splash of Merlot, this wine was spicy and juicy. Dark plum and cassis on the finish. A very nice wine to finish our day of wine tasting! August 2022
Come Visit Us at the Winery: I highly recommend adding Beckmen Vineyards to your Los Olivos wine tasting adventure if you want to drive a tiny bit out of town. “Enjoy a flight of six premier wines or picnic at one of our gazebos overlooking our pond.” 2670 Ontiveros Rd, Los Olivos, CA 93441 Open daily from 11am — 5pm, reservations recommended.
This is the third installment of our August “Sideways” trip to Los Olivos in search of Ballard Canyon AVA Syrahs. But, before we start on the wines, I want to take a moment to highlight our lunch experience at the Los Olivos Wine Merchant Café! My friend was being driven from Pasadena to Los Olivos for our little “Sideways” adventure. We decided to limit ourselves to 2 tastings after lunch, instead of pushing ourselves to 3. This was a smart decision, as we were able to enjoy our experiences and not feel rushed, including our lunch!
The menu at Los Olivos Wine Merchant Café offers a great variety of options. My friends split a pizza, while I enjoyed a California turkey sandwich on perfectly toasted bread. Since they just arrived, they enjoyed a glass of something. I had already been to 2 wineries and stuck with an iced tea. We sat outside and had such a relaxing meal. I did venture inside and got a peek at the wines for sale. I must say it is an impressive lineup from high-end Domaine de la Romanée-Conti to local wines. We then strolled over to Stolpman to begin our tasting.
If you can only stop at one place to taste wines in Los Olivos, I’d definitely stop here! We were given a large, shaded outdoor table and were greeted by Kim. The tasting menu was fixed, which at first disappointed me. However, more wines kept coming, so we ended up very satisfied with our tasting. While I was disappointed that I couldn’t try the Hilltops Syrah, I did buy a bottle to try a home. It was a lot of reds in the end, and I was very satisfied with the professional presentation. And they recognized my industry status and generously comped us our tasting! I’d say it was the ultimate tasting experience.
Our presenter Kim was amazing – she had a wealth of knowledge about the winery and the wines, highlighting how it keeps its staff all year long and that they are treated like family, as opposed to hiring temporary crews just for harvest and other tasks. See the write-ups for the Para Maria and La Cuadrilla wines below.
About Stolpman: Over 20 years ago, our Founding Partner, Tom Stolpman, discovered what we believe to be one of the greatest viticultural sites on earth. Hidden in the hills of California’s Central Coast, on a rare Limestone outcropping & unobstructed from the Pacific Ocean wind, this unique land is naturally suited to grow Syrah and Roussanne grapes. We are committed to preserving this natural environment for our vines through conscious farming, dry farming, & sustainable employment. In the winery, we prefer native fermentation & minimal manipulation.
“Dedicated to sensible farming & winemaking, we believe that we can create vibrant, site-specific wines, with a focus unique to Ballard Canyon AVA, California.”
Stolpman also partners with their vignerons, Ruben and Maria Solorzno, to create the Para Maria wines. “Ruben cherry picks the fruit for red and rose wines from the dozens of Santa Barbara County vineyards under his farming control.” In addition: “Stolpman Vineyards employs its dedicated, passionate vineyard workers year-round. In an effort to provide further stability to their families, the crew “La Cuadrilla” receives the profits of their wine.”
Today I am reviewing 9 Stolpman wines – the 8 we tried during our formal tasting plus another one I found while visiting my daughter in DC. Searching for a good wine at Cairo Wine & Liquor, I immediately recognized the owl logo of Para Maria de las tecolotes. The wine was was rated 94 points and was on sale! Winery notes come from their webpage above, where you can also purchase their wines.
2021 Stolpman Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc, Ballard Canyon AVA, Santa Barbara County, 12.5% ABV, $22 (#819)
Winery Notes: “Super sunny lemons and white flowers with an alluring tropical note below. Pear and Nectarine weave into the profile through the mid-palate and give way to an airy, effortless finish. The 2021 Sauvignon Blanc’s fruit profile and body dance on a tight rope through the crisp crunch and linger on through the sunset.”
My Review: Very light in the glass, barely even pale straw. Subtle tropical notes and grilled pineapple on the nose. Refreshing palate of bright citrus and lime twist on the finish. August 2022
2019 Stolpman Vineyards Roussanne, Ballard Canyon AVA, Santa Barbara County, 13.5% ABV, $30 (#820)
Winery Notes: “Aromas of Asian pear and honeysuckle sprinkled with citrus tell the tale of a rich, indulgent Roussanne ready to coat the palette in full-bodied splendor. On the nose, one can almost smell the rich texture and the mouthfeel doesn’t disappoint. While opulence carries the day, complimentary notes of lychee, lemongrass, and jasmine bring a more delicate prettiness. Aromas of white flower give further lift while golden hay – the only evidence of toasty oak barrels – brings the wine to a long, luxurious finish.”
My Review: Deep golden in the glass. Rich aroma akin to chicken soup with a touch of yeast. Sweet honey and caramel on the palate with vanilla bean on the finish. My friends really liked this wine. August 2022
2021 Para Maria de las tecolotes Rosé, Ballard Canyon AVA, Santa Barbara County, 12.5% ABV, $21 (#821) Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre
Winery Notes: “Dense strawberry and melon fruit dives deep into a sunburst blast of energy on both the nose and pallet. Fresh herb and wet stone compliment the beaming red fruit finished up with a spritz of lemon. Taut, high-toned, and bone-dry, yet carrying texture and fruit from the front of the palate through the finish.”
My Review: Dusty rose in color. Sweet watermelon and licorice on the nose. Dry palate with watermelon flavors – a great pool wine. August 2022
2019 Para Maria de las tecolotes, Ballard Canyon AVA, Santa Barbara County, 14.1% ABV, $22 (#822) 80% Syrah, 20% Petit Verdot
Winery Notes: “Taut blue and red plums spin seamlessly into high-toned, fiery red brightness. A winning combination of freshness and ripe depth.”
Wine Enthusiast – 94 points: “This affordable blend of 80% Syrah and 20% Petit Verdot always impresses. Expertly captured aromas of berry juice, pepper and thyme are savory yet soft on the nose. The palate is tense in structure but ripe in fleshy dark-red-fruit flavors, all elevated by touches of cracked pepper and lavender.” Matt Kettmann, 3/2021
My Review: Dark and purple in the glass. Deep berry on the nose. Smooth berries with a tannin kick on the palate. Dark cherry on the finish. Yum. Matt Kettmann was right on this one! August 2022
2021 Stolpman Vineyards La Cuadrilla, Ballard Canyon AVA, Santa Barbara County, 14% ABV, $24 (#823)75% Syrah, 15% Grenache, 10% Sangiovese
Winery Notes: “2021 Cuadrilla opens up with dark ripe plum highlighted with bright fresh red berries. Deep and supple with fine chalky tannins already married with a smooth, polished texture. An alluring otherness of wet stones, mint, and mocha prevail from the nose through the mouth captivating the senses beyond just the magnificently pleasurable profile.”
My Review: Ruby in color. Red and black berries on the nose. Grenache dominates the palate. August 2022
2019 Stolpman Vineyards Sangiovese, Ballard Canyon AVA, Santa Barbara County,14.5% ABV, $36 (#824)
Winery Notes: “The seamless, uber-aromatic 2019 sings a beautifully lifted “spirit note”. Misty wild red fruit streaks over woody forest and then washes over malt and fine chalky tannins. The wine is a journey, from the high-tone red fruit, to the forest depth, integrated tannin, and then yet another layer of deeper, riper red fruit. The most refined and compelling Sangiovese we’ve turned out over the past 20 years.”
My Review: Ruby in the glass. Dark, smooth berries on the nose. Rich palate of red and dark fruits. I liked this wine. August 2022
2020 Stolpman Vineyards Estate Syrah, Ballard Canyon AVA, Santa Barbara County, 14% ABV, $32 (#825)
Winery Notes: “In the glass, the 2020 Estate Grown Syrah possesses a deep black center with a bright red rim. On the nose, boysenberry fruit sits above black olives. Fine tannin melded into the smooth flesh carries into the finish already married with bright red acidity. Just a hint of Syrah wildness adds nuance to the beautiful opaque wall of fruit.”
My Review: Dark ruby in the glass. Delicious berries on the palate, fruity and smooth. A little taste of Sweetarts on the finish. This was a tasty wine. Would be great with Friday night burgers or pizza. August 2022
2020 Stolpman Vineyards Angeli Syrah, Ballard Canyon AVA, Santa Barbara County, 14.1% ABV, $72 (#826)
Winery Notes: “Booming red fruit intensity sounds the alarm for a rogue wave of coating, decadent, luxurious texture overwhelming the brain’s pleasure center. Even in its youth, the wine has no rough edge to soften although there is still an energetic tangerine zip on the finish in its youth. An absolute all-star, gorgeous Angeli bottling, making Mama Angeli proud!”
My Review: Very inky in the glass. Intense berries, rich and smooth on the palate. A tannic, slightly sour finish. This is a high-end Syrah – cellar this one a bit and try again. August 2022
2019 Stolpman Vineyards Hair of the Bear Red Wine, Ballard Canyon AVA, Santa Barbara County, 14.3% ABV, $65 (#827)75% Petite Syrah, 25% Rousanne
Winery Notes: “Inky purple in the glass and with a nose that pierces into pure hedonism. Thick and ripe but well-structured and youthful. The purple-blue-black fruit purity will evolve and continue to gain even more flesh to reach new heights in 2-3 years (2023-2025). As one of our biggest, richest cuvees, Hair of the Bear delivers the refined 2019 vintage in its own expression, rewarding with its largess – yet finely balanced and age-worthy. With an hour of air, hints of mint and basil begin to build onto the thick-cut fruit showing nods of sophistication to this Wild West cowboy wine.”
My Review: Deep ruby in color. Ham, berries and spice on the nose. Intense berries and tannin on the palate, with notes of Sweetarts on the finish. August 2022
Visit: You can taste Stolpman wines at their tasting room in the center of Los Olivos: 2434 Alamo Pintado Avenue. You can make a reservation on-line on their website or give them a call at 1-805-688-0400. I reserved on-line and it was very easy! We sat on a picnic bench in the shade and were quite comfortable despite the warm day.
Wines-You-Want-to-Share-with-Friends-Night continues – another one from my June DC wine class – was so nice to taste all these wines in person! The connection for us with this wine is the proprietor David Choi used to own Pearson’s Wine & Spirits in Washington DC – back when it was a real wine shop. Today’s wine was purchased years ago by a “classmate” at MacArthur Beverages in DC.
Outbreak Wine #395: 2014 Angel Falls Dark Angel Red Wine, Stolpman Vineyard, Ballard Canyon AVA, Santa Barbara, 14.5% ABV, $23 (list $55) 55% Syrah, 35% Grenache, 10% Petite Sirah, 237 cases produced
About Ballard Canyon from www.ballardcanyonava.org: “The Ballard Canyon AVA has been considered the premier wine growing appellation in Santa Barbara County. The Ballard Canyon AVA also boasts as it is America’s only Syrah Focused Appellation. The Ballard Canyon AVA has also achieved this prestigious recognition and official status, as receiving its very own federally recognized American Viticulture Area.”
About Angel Falls from www.angelfallswines.com: “Angel Falls was founded in 2012, following a dream and a passion to provide you with the highest quality wines from the best regions and appellations around the world. We take pride in the art of crafting distinctive and expressive wines—putting our heart and soul into every ounce, from vineyard to bottle…” They work with 2 regions in France and 2 in Santa Barbara County. One of the key team members is Peter Stolpman!
“…Spending countless hours—in the vineyards, on the road, meeting and establishing relationships with the grape growers, winemakers, luminaries and personalities—has proven to be quite an adventure!”
“…Working with elite winemakers and using the best grapes available around the world has been a dream come true. Our team values the small production approach to making every bottle of wine we handcraft just for you. The wines we produce here at Angel Falls have character. I believe it shouldn’t cost you a fortune to enjoy a really good, high quality wine. That’s why our team will continue to break the mold, providing you with the very best wines at an affordable price, from the most elite winemakers and vineyards from around the world.”
About the 2014 Dark Angel: “Medium-bodied with fresh, bright, rich and juicy flavors. Expressive with excellent structure. Aromatic notes of plums, raspberries, and wild cherries with subtle hints of cola and mocha. Fine elegant tannins with a nice lingering finish.”
My Review: Inky. Smoke and black berries on the nose. Palate is brighter berry and a touch acidic. June 2021
I don’t see any recent vintages and wonder if Angel Falls Wines is still being produced. Looks like most of their wines are sold out, but I saw that Bell Wine & Spirits in Washington DC carries a non-vintage Dark Angel Syrah for $20. I might like to try that one, too!
*Refers to wines tasted while Sheltering in Place on Sharon’s personal Facebook group “Sharon’s Central Coast (Monterey) Wine Blog” – including non-Central Coast wines.
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