Petite Sirah remains an uncommon variety in Santa Barbara County, but this vineyard's fruit constantly makes us question why. This Jaffurs spin on the grape begins with dark cacao bean and charcoal aromas that are wrapped in lush cassis and elderflower tones. The palate is intense with purple fruit and flower, but in a measured way, set atop creamy tannins. Powerful but silky.

The 2021 Petite Sirah Thompson Vineyard is terrific and also a step up from most previous years. Longer time in barrel (18 months versus 10) and a cooler growing season are among the reasons the Petite is so strong in 2021. There's plenty of inky, primary Petite fruit and fabulous purity, along with exceptional balance. What a great way to end this tasting. Drinking window 2023-2031.

The 2021 Petite Sirah Thompson Vineyard is a perennial winner. Coming all from the Thompson Vineyard in the Alisos Canyon region of Santa Barbara County and brought up in 18% new American oak, its deep purple hue is followed by a beautiful array of red, black, and blue fruits interwoven with cedarwood, flowery incense, and peppery herbs. It's rich and full-bodied, with beautiful fruit and fine tannins. This is one incredibly classy Petite Sirah that has plenty of up-front appeal yet, I suspect, the balance and structure to evolve for well over a decade.