2010 Dragonette Cellars, Grenache-Mourvedre-Syrah, Santa Barbara County.
This is a label to watch and Brandon Sparks-Gillis is making some fantastic wines, especially exciting is this Rhone style red from the 2010 vintage. Brandon, with experiences gained by working at Sine Qua Non, Torbreck and Fiddlehead, brings lots of talent to the table and it is reflected in this wonderful wine, and his others as well, which includes a great rose and lovely a Pinot Noir. The 2010 Grenache-Mourvedre-Syrah shows stunning purity and length with rich vibrant fruits, spice and mineral essences starting with a nose of grenadine, strawberry pie filling and lavender leading to a palate of boysenberry, plum and dark cherry fruit, peppery spices, mocha and dusty stones with hints of licorice and truffle. It is easy to tell this is from California, but it gives lots of Rhone character and the freshness is rewarding. One of the best Rhone style wines I’ve tasted this year, no question this is a stunning example and a super impressive wine.
($40 Est.) 93+ Points, grapelive
