Stolpman Syrah Estate Ballard Canyon 2019

We’ve had this one locked up for a while so last month’s review doesn’t really have anything to do with us offering it today. But Galloni pretty much hit the nail on the head. There is no domestic Syrah in this price point that comes close to Pete’s Estate Syrah. 

I generally compare Pete’s Estate Syrah with some of the high flying $80+ bottles but this vintage it may be more appropriate to liken it to a solid Cote Rotie (maybe it’s partially the pinch of Estate Viognier Pete adds). 

Pete’s Syrahs are always excellent; this one is his best ever and as close as you can get to perfect Syrah. The flavors just seem to explode in little pockets – ever changing with each sip; perhaps making it too easy to drink, but resist it. Give it a little time in the glass and you’ll be rewarded.  

The 2019 Estate Syrah is outstanding with a mouthful of fresh cherries and red berries, a hint of herbs and a slight white peppery finish. For my money, this is the best bottle of Syrah for the price that we have in America, a beautiful expression of the harmony between Pete’s delicate winemaking and the cool Santa Barbara climate.