820. Qupé, Bien Nacido Vineyard Syrah Santa Maria Valley, 2010

£27.50; 13.5%

Until the 2014 exam (after this tasting), the Bien Nacido Syrah was the exam wine, after which, the straight 2011, ironically, was added. This was particularly different from the straight, being more dense, savoury, complex and minerally. Deep ruby-purple, with a narrow rim. Deep nose of mocha, cinnamon and black pepper, with dark fruit. Varietal character with new French oak (actually 10% new Hungarian, 20% new French and 70% used French, apparently). Dark, quite juicy blackberry. Some medicinal / liquorice. Gravelly mineral, with a leather touch at the finish. Some palate sweetness. Supple, but firm structure. Very good indeed.