This countywide blend is the entry-level bottling of Sashi Moorman's many Syrahs, and it's stellar. Crushed peppercorns, crumpled flowers, rainy gutters and dewy thyme give tremendous depth to the crisp black-raspberry core. The palate is fresh, herbal, spicy and firm without being overbearing, showing singed pine, tar, plum and pepper flavors.

The 2018 Syrah (Santa Barbara County) PS is juicy, bold and flat-out delicious. A burst of sweet blue/purplish fruit opens first, followed by a range of floral and savory notes that add complexity. A touch of whole cluster perfume comes through, with hints of lavender, sage, mint and black pepper that develop in the glass. Readers who want to explore the Piedrasassi range will find so much to like here. Best of all, the 2018 is a screaming value.