While the Santa Barbara County AVA rightly conjures up images of succulent Pinot Noir and rich Chardonnay, it’s no secret the region also produces some very fine Syrah. Vie’s White Hawk Ranch Syrah is a good example. This is a rich, mouth-filling Syrah that is meaty enough to stand up to grilled meats and elegant enough to serve with more subtle dishes. Blueberry and blackberry are the dominant aromas, with an overlay of oak vanillin that could dwarf a lesser wine, but seems in balance here.
