About the Wine
Bob Lindquist is a pioneer in Santa Barbara winemaking. He planted some of the first cool climate Syrah in California at the Bien Nacido vineyard in the 1990s. He became known as one of founding Rhone Rangers, demonstrating that Rhone varietals could succeed in California.
"Qupe" is a Chumash Native American word for poppy, the California state flower often found in the area. The Bien Nacido vineyard translates to "of good birth" and is part of a larger parcel, associated with an original California land grant. Given the vineyard's east-west exposition, the cool air from the Pacific Ocean flows into the Santa Maria valley and creates a perfect, natural air conditioning that keeps nights and mornings cool and the days warm. For this reason, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay reign supreme here. And, as Bob discovered, so too does Syrah.
The Hillside Roussanne is considered the top wine in the Qupe lineup. A vineyard plot planted specifically for Roussanne based on Bob's direction and inspiration from the greatest Rhone vineyards.
Reviews
Probably the best white I’ve tasted from Qupé in a while, the 2013 Roussanne Bien Nacido Hillside Estate is a smokin’ good effort that gives up lots of white flowers, caramelized citrus, flower oil and ample minerality in a medium to full-bodied, impressively textured and layered style. Aged a year on lees in once used barrels, followed by six months in neutral wood, I’d drink this beauty over the coming 3-4 years, but I’m sure it will have an interesting evolution beyond that as well. ~91 WA
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