Wines Santa Ynez Valley Tensley - Colson Canyon Vineyard Syrah - 2022

Viniou Reviews

The 2022 Tensley Cuvée Colson Canyon Vineyard Syrah from the Santa Ynez Valley AVA in California is a remarkable wine that showcases the depth and complexity typical of this varietal. Syrah, primarily known for its bold and rich characteristics, thrives in this region's warm climate, allowing the grapes to achieve optimal ripeness. The Colson Canyon site is celebrated for producing Syrah with intense concentration and vibrant flavors, thanks to its well-drained soils and elevated vineyard positioning. This particular vintage from Tensley reflects these attributes, offering a blend of dark fruit flavors such as blackberry and plum, accompanied by notes of pepper, spice, and a touch of smoky oak from the careful vinification process.

The Santa Ynez Valley, part of California's esteemed wine country, benefits from a unique combination of climate influences. The valley enjoys a coastal influence with cool breezes moderating the temperatures, ensuring a prolonged growing season. This balance of warm days and cool nights is ideal for producing wines with both rich flavors and balanced acidity. The history of winemaking in this region is rooted in its diverse microclimates and varied soils, which provide an excellent terroir for a number of grape varietals, including Syrah.

For pairing, this Syrah's robust profile complements hearty dishes. Consider pairing it with grilled lamb chops or slow-cooked beef short ribs. Its peppery and spicy notes also make it an excellent match for Mediterranean cuisine, such as a lamb moussaka or a spicy pasta arrabiata. Regional Californian dishes like Santa Maria-style barbecue tri-tip would also harmonize well with this wine.

To fully appreciate the aromas and flavors of the Tensley Cuvée Colson Canyon Vineyard Syrah, it is best served slightly below room temperature, around 16-18°C (60-64°F). This allows the wine to open up and reveal its intricate layers, ensuring a memorable tasting experience.