New Release! This wine takes Ken full circle! Vines were grown on cuttings from the original Syrah Ken planted at Zaca Mesa in 1978, the first cultivation of Syrah in Santa Barbara County.
This wine represents a return to Ken’s roots as the founding winemaker of Zaca Mesa Winery in 1977. This Syrah—grown on cuttings from the block Ken planted in 1978—boasts aromas of blueberries and cracked pepper. Luscious flavors of blackberry jam and a hint of sage are supported by rich tannins and a smooth, lingering finish. The superb texture and complex profile will only be enhanced with additional time in the cellar.
Vineyard Designation
Zaca Mesa
Vineyard Notes
Zaca Mesa Vineyard is the birthplace of Santa Barbara County Syrah thanks to the vision of a young winemaker, Ken Brown. As Zaca Mesa’s first winemaker, Ken planted the Estrella Selection of Syrah in 1978 in what became known as the “Black Bear” block. The Estrella selection has uniquely adapted to Zaca Mesa’s terroir over the past 45 years, and is in the process of becoming a Heritage Clone by the U.C. Davis Foundation Plant Services Program. In the meantime, cuttings from the Black Bear block were used to plant Mesa Block A, which is the source for this wine. The vines are situated on a 1,400-foot mesa above the fog line, perfect for developing rich character and intensity.