Sanguis 2018 The Modern Syrah Santa Barbara 95 Points

Jeb Dunnuck 95 Points: “The 2018 The Modern is another meaty, savory, complex Syrah that has a touch of Côte Rôtie in its red and black fruits as well as notes of violets, smoked game, and flowers. Based on 91% Syrah and 9% Viognier that was only 50% destemmed and aged in used, larger barrels, it’s medium to full-bodied, with ripe tannins and terrific overall balance. As with the Syrah 1/1, this red shines for its complexity as well as its texture and balance.”

Vinous/ Owen Bargreen 95 Points: “2018 Sanguis ‘The Modern’ Red Wine- The 2018 ‘The Modern’ blends Syrah, Viognier, Petit Verdot and a touch of Marsanne. The lemon blossom high-tones from the Viognier and Marsanne are really lovely and combine with a brilliant core of red and dark fruits with creosote accents aromatically. The palate is dense and beautifully concentrated, with a massive wall of dark fruits, alongside citrus rind, scorched earth and tobacco leaf flavors. Downright delicious now, this has a long way to go. Drink 2021-2033- 95”

Winemaker Notes: “Syrah from our coolest vineyard, co-fermented with a dash of Petite Verdot produce an inky dark liquid of brooding character, a kiss of Viognier provides the balance of a broad, sultry smile, and the generous inclusion whole clusters during native fermentation maintain a beautifully layered transparency.  The Modern is the purest expression of Syrah we make each vintage.  This is Elliot’s favorite Sanguis wine (”ever”).  It reminds me very much of an early 90s Syrah that Steve Edmunds made from Sonoma’s Durell Vineyard (which, like the John Sebastiano vineyard, is a site more famous for Pinot Noir); a confidence inspiring bottle I got to enjoy many years before we started Sanguis, and which served as one of my inspirations to make wine in the first place. (thank you, Steve, for helping to get me into a world of trouble!).  

Only 125 cases produced

Also check out: