This blend of 47% Mourvèdre, 24% Syrah, 22% Petite Sirah, and 6% Grenache hails from Thompson Vineyard, planted in the late 1980s on the slopes of Alisos Canyon in the Los Alamos Valley, where own-rooted vines grow in sandy loam soils under cooler conditions. I first discovered these wines while tasting through a bevy of producers for my recent report on Santa Barbara County, and they are true standouts. The bouquet alone is remarkably enticing—dark cherries, Luxardo cherry, a dusting of white pepper, and a meaty, golden-honeyed barbecue note. The medium-bodied palate is gorgeously layered, with a core of juicy, crunchy cherry, raspberry, and pomegranate fruit complemented by cocoa-powder tannins. Super fine in structure, it’s framed by grippy, mouthwatering, zesty acidity. At 13.6% alcohol, the wine is precise, energetic, and elegant. Only 114 cases were produced—just over four barrels—bottled unfiltered. A wine club–only release, so be smart and get on the list.