Giddyap and give Bridlewood syrah a try

I’ve never been much for horse racing but this summer’s travels led me to Bridlewood Winery. This Arabian horse farm-turned-winery sits in the heart of California’s Santa Ynez Valley. While the winery is full-production, a large acreage still doubles as a horse rehabilitation facility, including a full-size horse race track.

 Surrounded by a canopy of lush green trees and an impeccable display of flowering gardens, the winery is quite majestic.

I was fortunate enough to be invited to Bridlewood during a supplier trip. The folks at the winery prepared a wonderful evening of food, wine and even a horse race to start off the evening. I have to say that seeing a live horse race in person was quite entertaining. Not lost in this wonderful presentation was the Bridlewood Central Coast Syrah ($10.99, 750 ml.).

This rich, ruby colored syrah boasts a complex flavor profile of black cherry, plum, chocolate and spice. On the palate, the soft tannins linger, giving way to a long finish with hints of spice and mocha. This wine would be a wonderful accompaniment to some of my favorite winter dishes such as rack of lamb and duck.

The evening was filled with good friends, good wine and plenty of laughter, making my stay in California a memorable one. Try a bottle of this syrah today. You may not fall in love with horses, but I’m sure you’ll enjoy the wine.

Joe Henry is the wine manager at Wilbur's Total Beverage. He enjoys his "big backyard" in the mountains and all the blessings that come with living in Colorado. He is married and enjoys traveling, hiking and spending time with his wife.