2018 Galvanized Synergy Red

The red Galvanized Synergy is currently a dreamy blend of three Southern Rhone/Languedoc varieties, Grenache, Syrah and Carignan. Due to the rarity of Carignan in Santa Barbara County, this is no doubt one of very few blends of its kind in the area. Even among French Chateauneuf-du-Pape producers who choose to bottle authentic blends of all nine of the listed red grapes (including the more popular Grenache, Mourvèdre and Syrah), Carignan never makes the cut because it is not on their “list”, and is not allowed. This makes our Galvanized synergy blend of Southern Rhone varieties that much more unique.

I have been working with Carignan for a few years now, and I love its varietal expression. When grown in well farmed vineyards, it makes very punchy wine that makes its presence felt in any blend. Currently our Carignan is coming out of the Santa Ynez Valley, and the Grenache for this project has been coming from a smattering of Santa Barbara County vineyards. The Syrah has been coming from the Santa Maria Valley. Thus far, the 2016 and the 2017 vintages have been dark, rich joys to drink.

Galvanized Synergy is our new name for Rhone blends, both red and white. The idea is to create synergistic blends from some of the extraordinary new Rhone Varieties that are popping up in Santa Barbara County. The galvanizing aspect of it all is the discovery of these new vineyards and varieties, and the development of winemaking styles that perfectly incorporate their strengths. From experience and understanding, it’s like taking synergies to their ultimate levels in winemaking.