Tensley Wines Tensley Santa Barbara County Syrah 2023 750ml

This rich and complex version leads with details of lilac, toasted herbs, slate and pepper that yield a deeply concentrated core of cherry, brambly raspberry and cassis. A subtle, caviarlike, salty brine–umami note on the back end drives the finish, where there’s a bit of tannins. Lingers around mineral and herb flavors. Drink now through 2038. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 2,800 cases made.

The 2022 Syrah Santa Barbara County is scented of cassis, blueberries, warm chocolate, forest floor, lavender and iron. The full-bodied palate features powerful, floral fruit supported by soft, approachable tannins and bursts of mouthwatering acidity, and it has a long, fragrant finish. It’s dangerously easy to drink without sacrificing nuance or complexity. 3,000 cases were produced. (Erin Brooks)

Plump and supple, with generous raspberry and huckleberry flavors that reveal details of mocha and savory spices, finishing with refined tannins. Drink now through 2032. 2,100 cases made. (Tim Fish)

The appellation 2022 Syrah Santa Barbara County is deep purple-hued with a darker core of black (and some blue) fruits that are supported by leafy herbs, pepper, and spring flower-like nuances. It’s a juicy, medium to full-bodied, ready-to-go Syrah that has sweet tannins and no hard edges. It’s going to have a decade of longevity and, I suspect, be even better in a year or two. (Jeb Dunnuck)

The 2023 Syrah Santa Barbara County will be gorgeous, offering bright black and blue fruits as well as some peppery, violets, and exotic floral nuances. It's beautifully balanced, medium to full-bodied, has ripe tannins, and a great finish.

The 2022 Syrah (Santa Barbara County) is a powerhouse. Inky dark fruit, new leather, licorice, dried herbs, chocolate and leather are all dialed up in this huge, opulent Syrah. There’s not much subtlety here, that is for sure. I would give this a year or two to shed some baby fat. (Antonio Galloni)