Tensley 2011 Santa Barbara Syrah Lite
A departure from the normally larger than life line up of Syrahs from Tensley, this has been deemed "lite" due to early harvesting and its low-ish 13% alcohol. I found this anything but light, but actually fully ripe and delicious with classic Syrah flavors reminiscent of a Crozes Hermitage - lush red fruit, a savory meatiness (not quite bacon), black olives, eucalyptus and violets; energetic on the palate, with good volume, gravelly tannins, and drinkability with a just a tinge of herbs in the finish. A lovely New World wine that scratches a Syrah itch at a more than reasonable price. cb



