Zinke 2016 Syrah Reserve, Kimsey Vyd., Ballard Canyon

Zinke Wine Company started by Michael Zinke, specializes in handcrafted, single vineyard Rhone varietal wines sourced from the “Grand Crus” of California’s Central Coast. These esteemed vineyards utilize the strictest viticulture practices, are manned by the best crews, and are ideal sites growing the sourced varietals, in this case Syrah.

They don’t muddy up the fruit with additives, colorings, or other unnatural, non-essential elements. Small lots, whole cluster fermentation and finding the proper balance of oak and time are the formula they follow.

This wine is their Reserve Syrah sourced entirely from the Kimsey Vineyard in Ballard Canyon. This vineyard planted in 2009 is certified organically farmed. The sandy loam soils and the unique microclimate are ideal for Syrah that’s bold and expressive.

The grapes are hand harvested and carefully selected. Fermentation is with 100% native yeast in 1.5 Ton open top tanks with 20% whole cluster. The wine then aged 30 months in 68% once-filled uncheons and 32% neutral barriques.

The Tasting Panel/Somm Journal Magazine scored this 94 points saying "From one of my favorite vineyard sites in the Santa Ynez Valley, this stunning certified-organic red spent 30 months in once-filled puncheons (68%) and neutral barrels (32%). Glorious in its depth, the sumptuous liquid shows a well-defined character of white pepper, violets, cherry liqueur, and just the right balance of oak."

Connoisseur's Guide scored this 92 points and Wine Enthusiast Magazine scored this 91 points saying "Jammy blackberry aromas meet with stewed prunes and a hint of caramel on the nose of this reserve bottling, which comes from just two barrels. The palate is thick and ripe, with roasted plum, caramel and dried violet flavors, proving quite lush."

With only 75 cases of this wine produced, we were extremely lucky to get our hands on some and you’re lucky that we’re offering this extremely limited, boutique California red at a remarkable discounted price. Don’t miss it!