Santa Barbara Winery Syrah – Succulent Santa Ynez Valley

Last Updated on August 13, 2025

2012-Santa-Barbara-Winery-Syrah
An excellent example of my favorite variety.

Syrah from Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara County, Central Coast, California.

SRP of $19 and available for as low as $17. 1,087 cases produced. Sample submitted for review.

From the bottle:

“Syrah is one of the few grapes that make terrific wine, albeit different styles, from a variety of climates. Winemaker Bruce McGuire, whose wines have received national recognition, is an early pioneer in blending Syrah grown throughout the west-east traverse of the Santa Ynez Valley.

Bruce McGuire, winemaker since 1981, is one of the pioneers in the development of Pinot Noir and Syrah in Santa Barbara County. Under his guidance, Santa Barbara Winery enforces impeccable farming practices to produce a wide variety of handcrafted wines.

14.8% Alcohol”

The 2012 Lafond Family Santa Barbara Winery Santa Ynez Valley Syrah begins with an excellent aroma chock-full of ripe blackberry, lavender, a little mint and a hint of smoke. Taking a sip reveals plenty of delicious fruit (primarily ripe blackberry) that is tinged with black and white pepper, spice and even a little minerality. This is a smooth, really tasty and very easy to drink Syrah. It ends dry, grippy and even a bit dusty with lots more sweet blackberry that lasts and lasts.

See a listing of local retailers selling this wine here.


Taste Rating: 9              Cost Rating: 4
Overall Rating: 7.8

Recommended Buy


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Jon Thorsen

ABOUT JON THORSEN

Author and independent wine consumer helping millions of people find great wines without breaking the bank since 2011. Sign up for my FREE GUIDE to learn how! Read more about me...