Had a quick dash in my local wine shop The Winehound the other day looking for a bottle I had heard about.
Apparently, the famous Bob Lindquist of Qupé fame has a son who makes Rhônes too!
I later found out Ethan has been making wine for a while now, and I must say the current vintage available of Ethan Santa Barbara County, Syrah 2008, did not disappoint.
In fact it was (as we finished it that night) a very smooth drinking bevy indeed. On the nose was a blend of peppery spices, hints of wild thyme and blackberry jam while the palate was very juicy with boysenberry and some tannin grip. Think a bunch of crushed berries wrapped in suede.
Ethan Santa Barbara County Syrah 2008
I forgot the exact price but think it’s in the $21 range…and I would wholeheartedly suggest going out and finding some.
Also, poker fans Ethan and his brother have gone “all in” with another project of high-end Rhônes called No Limits Wine.
I believe they are only days/weeks from launching www.nolimitwine.com
So, ante up if you’re interested and let’s hope they aren’t bluffing.
You can also find Ethan wines at the Qupé tasting room in Los Olivos, 2963 Grand Avenue.
Spiltwine 