Sanguis

The Optimist Syrah

9.110 ratings
-no pro ratings
Santa Maria Valley, Central Coast, California, USA
Syrah
Lamb
Top Notes For
Steve Anderson

Probably would have opened more with air, but it was gone in 30 min.

Probably would have opened more with air, but it was gone in 30 min.

1 person found it helpfulMar 9th, 2014
Freddy R. Troya

Sanguis “Optimist” Proprietary Red Blend
Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara County, California, USA 🇺🇸

Overview
A charismatic and versatile red from Sanguis, the “Optimist” is a harmonious yet expressive blend of Grenache, Petit Verdot, Syrah, and a touch of Roussanne. It’s designed to bring early pleasure—rich yet balanced, and perfect for both casual sipping and food pairing. 

Composition (2020 Vintage)
• 70% Grenache
• 12% Petit Verdot
• 10% Syrah
• 8% Roussanne
This composition delivers a lush, aromatic, and layered profile, with Grenache providing fruitiness, Petit Verdot structure, Syrah spice, and Roussanne a subtle aromatic lift. 

Aromas & Flavors
Bright red cherry and lush berry fruit intermingle with floral perfume and savory spice. There’s a nuanced herbal undertone—think dried herbs or garrigue—and a hint of minerality that adds intrigue and finesse.

Mouthfeel
Medium-bodied and supple, the wine is smooth and elegantly textured, with vibrant acidity and a balanced finish that leaves a satisfying freshness.

Winemaking Notes
Sourced from diverse vineyard sites across the Santa Ynez Valley, it’s crafted with care to allow both fruit and structure to shine. Roussanne adds a graceful aromatic lift to the backbone of Grenache and Petit Verdot.  

Food Pairing
Terrific with grilled meats, hearty vegetable dishes, or charcuterie. Also plays beautifully with tomato-based pasta or lighter fare, thanks to its savory, fruit-forward personality.

Verdict
A genuine crowd-pleaser with depth and nuance—Sanguis “Optimist” is joyfully bold yet approachable, offering plenty of charm and vibrant energy. A masterclass in balance and flavor, perfect for both everyday meals and mindful sipping. Cheers

Sanguis “Optimist” Proprietary Red Blend
Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara County, California, USA 🇺🇸

Overview
A charismatic and versatile red from Sanguis, the “Optimist” is a harmonious yet expressive blend of Grenache, Petit Verdot, Syrah, and a touch of Roussanne. It’s designed to bring early pleasure—rich yet balanced, and perfect for both casual sipping and food pairing. 

Composition (2020 Vintage)
• 70% Grenache
• 12% Petit Verdot
• 10% Syrah
• 8% Roussanne
This composition delivers a lush, aromatic, and layered profile, with Grenache providing fruitiness, Petit Verdot structure, Syrah spice, and Roussanne a subtle aromatic lift. 

Aromas & Flavors
Bright red cherry and lush berry fruit intermingle with floral perfume and savory spice. There’s a nuanced herbal undertone—think dried herbs or garrigue—and a hint of minerality that adds intrigue and finesse.

Mouthfeel
Medium-bodied and supple, the wine is smooth and elegantly textured, with vibrant acidity and a balanced finish that leaves a satisfying freshness.

Winemaking Notes
Sourced from diverse vineyard sites across the Santa Ynez Valley, it’s crafted with care to allow both fruit and structure to shine. Roussanne adds a graceful aromatic lift to the backbone of Grenache and Petit Verdot.  

Food Pairing
Terrific with grilled meats, hearty vegetable dishes, or charcuterie. Also plays beautifully with tomato-based pasta or lighter fare, thanks to its savory, fruit-forward personality.

Verdict
A genuine crowd-pleaser with depth and nuance—Sanguis “Optimist” is joyfully bold yet approachable, offering plenty of charm and vibrant energy. A masterclass in balance and flavor, perfect for both everyday meals and mindful sipping. Cheers

Sep 8th, 2025
The Schwartz

Drinking well from magnum

Drinking well from magnum

Aug 16th, 2015
Betsy Schermer

Betsy had this 2 years ago

Betsy had this 2 years ago

Jul 29th, 2023
Betsy Schermer

Betsy had this 3 years ago

Betsy had this 3 years ago

Oct 23rd, 2022
Betsy Schermer

Betsy had this 4 years ago

Betsy had this 4 years ago

Mar 12th, 2022
Betsy Schermer

Betsy had this 5 years ago

Betsy had this 5 years ago

Jan 2nd, 2021
Michael Park

Michael had this 8 years ago

Michael had this 8 years ago

Dec 23rd, 2017
Peggy Hadley

Peggy had this 9 years ago

Peggy had this 9 years ago

Apr 20th, 2016
Henry Bongiovi

Henry had this 12 years ago

Henry had this 12 years ago

Jan 1st, 2014