BALLARD CANYON  |  SANTA BARBARA COUNTY

The 2019 carries on our tradition of producing focused, intriguing Grenaches that taste great upon release, but also evolve with age. Ruby-colored and medium-bodied, this wine shows aromatics of freshly picked red fruits, gingerbread and rose petals. Raspberry and cherry-cola give way to garigue and dusty tannins. With a structured, firm finish, this is a serious Grenache that will pair magnificently with poultry, pork and lighter red meat preparations. Drink young for a lively albeit tighter wine, or be rewarded with 3-7 years in the cellar.

Reviews

Wine Enthusiast  94 Points ~ Fruit and floral aromas of red cherry, red currant, raspberry, and rose petal are offset by a mineral streak of wet gravel and kick of cola spice on the nose of this bottling. The palate is loaded with fresh red-fruit and red-flower flavors, from pomegranate to hibiscus, balanced by orange rind. — Matt Kettmann

Jeb Dunnuck  92 Points ~ The 2019 Grenache comes from two sites in Ballard Canyon and was fermented with plenty of stems and brought up in neutral barrels. It's a Pinot Noir-like Grenache offering up-front kirsch and framboise (and some strawberry) fruit as well as herbes de Provence, white pepper, and sandalwood aromas and flavors. Beautifully textured, medium-bodied, and elegant, the tannins are wonderfully managed, and it's a beautiful, elegant Grenache to drink over the coming 4-5 years. Maturity 2021-2026. — Jeb Dunnuck

2018 Grenache, Santa Barbara County

Vinous  92 Points ~ Crushed rose petal, cedar, sweet pipe tobacco and mint soar out of the glass as the 2018 Grenache shows off its considerable allure. Soft and inviting, with tons of varietal character and appeal, the Grenache simply hits all the right notes. Drinking window 2020-2030. — Antonio Galloni

2017 Grenache, Santa Barbara County

Vinous  92 Points ~ The 2017 Syrah (Santa Barbara County) is another gorgeous appellation-level wine from Jaffurs. Inky red/purplish berry fruit, black pepper, mint, lavender and licorice add aromatic nuance, but more than anything else, the 2017 is incredibly layered and detailed within its peer group. A dollop (8%) Grenache works well in rounding out the wine's balance. Drink 2020-2027. — Antonio Galloni

Jeb Dunnuck  90 Points ~ The 2017 Grenache Santa Barbara County comes from a handful of sites in Santa Barbara County and saw 43% stems and all neutral oak. Pretty strawberry, cherry, dried herbs, and earthy, peppery notes all emerge from this pure, beautifully polished red that has fine tannins and a great finish. It's one of those classic California Grenache that has a Pinot Noir-like vibe.  — Jeb Dunnuck