Coming from Stolpman, Larner and Bien Nacido, and aged 18 months in neutral barrels, the 2013 Grenache is medium-bodied, rounded and textured, with solid complexity in its dried cherry, cured meats, herbs and spice aromas and flavors. It’s already drinking great and should be enjoyed over the coming 3-4 years.

Already approachable and ready to go, the light ruby-colored 2012 Grenache is one of the better examples of this lighter, more perfumed style of Grenache that's so common in California. Showing lots of kirsch, rose petal, candle wax and floral notes, it's medium to full-bodied, voluptuous, supple and sexy, with a sweet core of fruit. Made from 100% Grenache, 80% destemmed and aged 18 months in used French oak, I suspect it will evolve nicely over the coming 4-6 years given its overall balance and harmony.

Moving on to the reds, the 2011 Grenache shows the cooler, more difficult year with its Pinot Noir like profile. Cherries, flowers, underbrush and pepper all emerge from this mid-weight, elegant effort and it-s upfront and ready to go. Enjoy it over the coming couple of years. Drink now-2016. Craig Jaffurs continues to produce a bevy of brilliant Rhone blends from his winery in Santa Barbara. While his 2010s are spectacular, his 2011s are lighter in color and weight, with more upfront characters. They should pick up additional weight with some bottle time, yet most will require drinking over the coming 5-6 years. Tel. (805) 962-7003; www.jaffurswine.com

The 2009 Grenache comes across as rather delicate and feminine. Dark red fruit, flowers and spices flow from this aromatic, mid-weight offering. The Grenache was made from parcels in Thompson Vineyard (77%) and Larner Vineyard (23%). The Larner fruit was fermented with the stems, which is one of the reasons why the Grenache shows so much aromatic lift. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2017. This is a very strong showing from Rhone specialist Craig Jaffurs. The Syrahs in particular are outstanding. In 2009 the Syrahs were picked between October 5 and November 4 illustrating just how long the harvest can stretch in Santa Barbara. The straight Santa Barbara County is an excellent starting point, and easily one of the best values readers will find in California Syrah. Tel. (805) 962-7003

Jaffurs 2009 Grenache (Santa Barbara County). A pretty, polished Grenache, balanced and savory. Shows a Pinot Noir-like delicacy in the mouth, with cherry and red plum fruit, leading to a slightly sweet finish. Drink now for it’s freshness.