2012 Foxen Syrah Toasted Rope

The 2012 Syrah Toasted Rope Santa Ynez Valley is 85% Syrah and 15% Viognier. Exotic and perfumed, with plenty of peach pit, cherry, flowers and mint, it’s moderately concentrated and is a supple charming effort to drink over the coming 3-4 years. I was blown away by these new Pinot Noir releases from Foxen, and they’re up near the top of the vintage. Unfortunately, I can’t say the same with regards to the Rhone blends, and these had superficial, mid-weight profiles geared for near-term drinking. As to the Bordeaux blends, these come from the eastern most AVA in Santa Barbara County and are labeled under the Foxen 7200 label. Tel. (805) 937-4251; www.foxenvineyard.com