JOEY TENSLEY Syrah - Santa Barbara County, California 2022 Bottle (los)

Description

IN BRIEF
Joey Tensley Syrah is an exceptional expression of the varietal, reflecting the winemaker’s passion nurtured during his time in the Rhône Valley. The 2021 vintage has garnered high acclaim, earning 94 points from The Wine Advocate for its lush aromas of cassis and blueberry, with hints of tar and citrus. The medium-bodied palate showcases a chalky texture and vibrant freshness, culminating in a long, floral finish. Decanter also rates it 94 points, praising the contrast between the sun-drenched richness of black fruit and the savoury backdrop of crushed black pepper, olives, and sage. This beautifully crafted Syrah serves as an accessible introduction to the diverse flavours of Santa Barbara County and is best enjoyed between 2024 and 2032.

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THE WINE ADVOCATE 94 points
Medium to deep ruby-purple, the 2021 Syrah Santa Barbara County has lush cassis and blueberry aromas with touches of tar and citrus. The medium-bodied palate is chalky, fresh and perfumed with a long, floral finish. This is incredibly drinkable!" Drink 2022 - 2027. - (Dec 2022) Erin Brooks

DECANTER 94 points
Tasted by: Anna Lee Ijima
(at New York, 15 Feb 2024)
Part of American Syrah: 30 top buys
Drinking Window: 2024 - 2032
Sourced from five vineyard sites, Tensley's basic Syrah contrasts the sun-drenched richness of black fruit against a savoury backdrop of crushed black pepper, olives and sage. Full-bodied but flecked with salt and earth, it's an accessibly priced introduction to the diversity of Santa Barbara County.

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ABOUT THE PRODUCER
Joey Tensley is an acclaimed winemaker based in California's Santa Barbara County, known for producing high-quality wines that reflect the unique characteristics of the region. He is the founder of Tensley Wines, established in 1998, and has gained a strong reputation for his expertise in crafting exceptional Syrah, Grenache, and other Rhône varietals.

Joey’s passion for winemaking began in his early years, and he honed his craft working at various wineries before launching his own label. Tensley Wines focuses on small-lot production, allowing for meticulous attention to detail and a hands-on approach throughout the winemaking process.

The vineyards Joey sources grapes from include notable sites in the Santa Ynez Valley and Ballard Canyon, where the climatic conditions and terroir contribute to the exceptional quality of his wines. Tensley’s offerings are celebrated for their depth, richness, and vibrant fruit flavors, often showcasing the bold character typical of Rhône varietals.

Recognized both nationally and internationally, Joey Tensley has garnered numerous accolades and high ratings from wine critics, establishing himself as a noteworthy figure in the California wine industry. His dedication to producing authentic and compelling wines continues to resonate with wine enthusiasts and collectors alike, making Tensley Wines a sought-after choice for those seeking to explore the best of California Rhône wines.