Nose
A characteristic meaty, leathery, almost feral nose, bordering on rancio, (but in a good way), anise and pepper.
Palate
There is a sleek, oily texture to this wine with great persistence, and ubiquitous umami or savoriness (a hallmark of BDV in general, and X-Block in particular.) On the palate, very plush w/ soft tannins and suggestions of smoked meat in the lower register; peppery, minty and delicately floral on top.
Growing Conditions
The Syrah from the "X-Block" of the Bien Nacido Vineyard in the Santa Maria Valley elegantly evokes the Platonic paradigm of Syrah, likely owing to the area's unique microclimate, the age of the vines, the clonal selection, and the unique calcareous vineyard soils. The big vines with lots of buds produces extremely small clusters, especially in the sloped section, and this is one secret to the intensity and concentration of the X-block fruit.
Harvest
2013 was a warmer and challenging year (everywhere), but nevertheless yielded a classic expression of Bien Nacido. We love the Syrah fruit that comes from the X-Block.
Food Pairing
Lamb Rib Chops with Olive Oil Braised Cannelini Beans, Orange Gremolata. Steak Au Poivre with Green Peppercorns. Sherry Braised Chicken Thighs with Lardons. Wild Mushroom Cobbler.
