Sure the year has just started but seriously this is off the charts from the 2021 vintage. I have been doing this a long time and no wine has impressed as much for $20 on the shelf. Of course Thomas Liquors in St. Paul. Sold out of course.
- 2021 Tensley Syrah – USA, California, Central Coast, Santa Barbara County (1/9/2023)
Day 4: showing and still showing strong. Black pepper, violets, exotic spices, earth, wood, dark fruits and mild smoke. Super complex wine and amazing value. 93 points
Day 5: While not as good as day 4 still shows nicely with black pepper, spice, earth, crushed rock and tar. Great wine. 91 points
Recommendation: Buy this and get a case. You’re welcome. (93 points) - 2021 Tensley Syrah – USA, California, Central Coast, Santa Barbara County (12/31/2022)
3 Day World Headquarters New Year’s Celebration (Bloomington, MN): Day 1: Alright 2020 was excellent with a fruit forward style but did not overdo it. This 2021 is off the charts! Can’t believe no one else has reviewed it but here we go. Black pepper, spice, boysenberries, tar, dark cherry, stone and soy sauce. So thankful that my boys from Thomas Liquor reached out to me and said we have a case and was able to get 4. Should have got all 12 but that is not sharing! Now will have to redo my top 10 of the year for under $30. 94+ points
Day 2: Wonderful on day 2. Black pepper, savory spices, floral, tar, dark berries, stone, soy sauce, minerals and dried herbs. Just an amazing, complex wine with a really long finish. Can’t imagine many wines under $20 at this level. 94+ points
Day 3: Still outstanding. Always love those that think wines don’t drink well for 3 days. This is for sure back up the truck and one of the best $20 wines I have sampled in a long time. Just amazing complexity on this wine and a true definition of what California Syrah should smell and taste like. Black pepper, boysenberries, minerals, tar, savory spices, floral, earth, dust and underbrush. 94+ points
Recommendation: Buy all the store has to offer. (94 points)