Shirah Graciano Kingsley Vineyard 2023

The 2023 Graciano from Kingsley Vineyard is a bold and expressive wine that captures the richness of the Santa Ynez Valley. The nose is immediately striking, offering dark, ripe fruit layered with nuanced oak toast, chocolate, black cherry, peppercorn and marzipan. Hints of loamy earth, Central Coast brush, and subtle garrigue provide complexity, while a whisper of cinnamon spice adds warmth and intrigue.

On the palate, the wine is full-bodied yet lively, with round, balanced tannins and well-integrated acidity. The oak presence is felt more than tasted, giving structure without overpowering the fruit. Layers of baked pastry, pie crust, and gentle toast add depth, creating a wine that is rich and luxurious, but still light on its feet. While currently showing abundant ripe fruit, a few years of aging will reveal more of Graciano’s characteristic peppery spice, bringing additional dimension to this already complex and very drinkable wine. Signature Shirah elegance shines through, making it both powerful and approachable.

Winemaker Notes

Varietal: Graciano

Vineyard: Kingsley

Region: Santa Ynez Valley AVA, Santa Barbara County, Central Coast, CA

Alcohol Content: 14.6%

TASTING NOTE 

Nose: peppery; rapidly shows off its ripeness; wild, rustic, and meaty quality; deep, dark berry fruit core; crème brûlée oak; warm baking spices.

Mouth: Big, full bodied yet balancing tannin and fluidity, more pepper, meat and dark berry fruit notes. 

Decant for: 1-2 hours. 

Pair with: The Grill!

Drinkability: Drink Now through 2033