On the table tops of the Santa Ynez Zaca Mesa

Zaca Mesa, a pioneer of Rhone varieties in the Santa Ynez Valley

Zaca Mesa is a Pioneer in the Santa Ynez valley, it is one of the first to plant Rhone varieties.  Zaca means “peaceful & restful”.  It is situated 1500ft on a plateau (hence the name mesa, or table top in Spanish) and lies above the fog line and provide excellent drainage. This is Indian land. All the estate vineyards are farmed sustainably.  The vineyards are easy to farm and the plateau allows for even ripening.

Ken Brown was the first to plant Syrah in Santa Barbara back in 1978.  He used vines from Eberle and Chapoutier.  He was one of the original Rhone Rangers at Zaca Mesa, since then many other winemakers passed through the cellar such as Bob Linquist and Lane Tanner.  Today the winery is owned by John Cushman who was an original investor.  What was once 1,600 acres is now downsized to 750 acres with only 200 acres devoted to vines.  Today the focus at Zaca Mesa is in lower yields and quality.  I was very surprised by the result of this tasting. (more…)