Zaca Mesa Black Bear Block Syrah

Zaca Mesa Black Bear Block Syrah

Named for the many black bears that live around our vineyard, Black Bear Block was the first Syrah planted in Santa Barbara County in the 70’s at the Zaca Mesa Winey & Vineyards.

We tasted the 2003 Black Bear Block Syrah, which has been laid down for several years for the video. On other occasions we have tried several fo the other years and found each one excellent. You may have to wait for the Black Bear Block wines since they are not as released very often, but in the meantime the Mesa Reserve Syrah is available and is from grapes that are only a half a mile away from the Black Bear Block. The 2008 Black Bear Block Syrah and the 2008 Mesa Reserve Syrah will be released in August 2011. The suggested pairing for the 2008 Black Bear Block Syrah is a Rosemary Rubbed Flatiron Steak, Balsamic Roasted Cipollini Onions and Garlic Spinach.

2003 Black Bear Block Wine Tasting Notes: Cassis, blackberry preserves, plum, tar, black pepper, mocha and leather in the nose. In the mouth blackberry, fruit, smokey oak, ripe tannins, sage, pepper. Ages well up to 10 years. Pairs well with grilled meats, lamb, duck. We give this wine to Piers Brosnan.