Qupe Syrah Stolpman Vineyard 2005

Santa Ynez Valley AVA, Central Coast, California, USA
$43-50

Que syrah, syrah….  I think of this as the rallying song of the Central Coast’s Rhone Rangers. This Californian band of merry vintners is dedicated to promoting Rhone varietals through expression of their unique terroir. In the Rhone Valley, there are 22 grape varieties including the well-known Syrah, Grenache and Viognier.  Less common here (though thoroughly delicious) include Mourvèdre, Roussanne, Counoise, Bourboulenc and Picpoul. Qupe’s Bob Lindquist was at the head of the pack, making Syrah in Santa Barbara back before either the grape or the area were cool (1982!)

Fall’s foggy weather prompted cracking open a couple of hearty, cozy reds. If you come across this single vineyard Syrah from Qupe, you should grab it. Though the 2005 is still available on this market (try Marquis Wines), the following 06 vintage was their last ever from this Vineyard, as the Stolpman family has decided to keep these fabulous grapes for their own winery’s production.

Aromas of ripe blackberry and plum dominate the nose, followed by a full body of juicy cassis, salted meat, mineral, black pepper and earth flavours. As with many gutsy reds, this benefits from decanting – or at least opening an hour or two before you’re ready to enjoy.  And enjoy you will. Expressive, structured and lengthy – this wine makes me welcome the rainy days again on the Wet Coast.

* Available at select private wine stores

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