WINE OF THE MONTH
Presqu’Ile Winery Syrah
Santa Barbara 2021
A Crowd Favorite: Presqu’Ile Syrah Wins the Night at Wine Circle
Last night’s gathering of the Wilmington Wine Circle’s March Wine Circle took us on a journey through one of the wine world’s most fascinating grapes: Syrah, or Shiraz, depending on where you find it grown.
As always, the most important part of Wine Circle wasn’t just the wine, it was the conversation, laughter, and shared discovery around the table. Members compared aromas, debated their favorites, and enjoyed some excellent food pairings that highlighted Syrah’s savory side.
At the end of the evening, we held our traditional vote for the Wine Circle Favorite of the Night. While several bottles received enthusiastic praise, one wine clearly captured the group’s attention: The 2021 Syrah from Presqu’Ile Winery in Santa Barbara County.
This wine is a wonderful example of the elegance that cooler-climate California Syrah can achieve. In the glass, it showed a deep ruby color and inviting aromas of blackberry, black cherry, plum, violet, and cracked black pepper.
On the palate, the wine struck a beautiful balance. Ripe dark fruit flavors were supported by fresh acidity and smooth, medium-plus tannins, giving the wine both structure and energy. The finish lingered with notes of dark berries and pepper, making it easy to see why so many members returned to their glass for another sip.
What made this wine particularly memorable was how it captured the best of Syrah’s personality–rich fruit, aromatic complexity, and that signature peppery edge that makes the grape so compelling at the table.
But beyond the wine itself, the evening reminded us why the Wilmington Wine Circle exists in the first place: to learn together, explore new regions and producers, and enjoy the simple pleasure of sharing a great bottle with friends.
Congratulations to Presqu’Ile for taking the top spot this month, and thank you to everyone who brought bottles, food, curiosity, and great conversation.
I’m already looking forward to our next Wine Circle adventure.
“The best wines are the ones we drink with friends.”
Upcoming Wine Circle
April is SPAIN
The first Thursday of each month, up to 8 people get together to enjoy each other’s company as we taste wine focused on a particular varietal, wine style or wine region. The April 2 Wine Circle is focused on the wines of Spain. There’s no fee to participate in these gatherings. Each month is hosted by a different person who is only responsible for providing glasses and a festive tasting atmosphere. Each participant brings a bottle of wine and a paired snack to share that fits the month’s theme.
Wilmington Wine Circle 