Sanguis "Optimist" 2021 Proprietary Red Blend, Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara

The 2021 Sanguis “Optimist” steps into the glass with a fluid warmth—red berry fruit coloring the edges of burlap, threaded with kirsch and dried herb florals. It feels earnest and vivid, not loud, even in its youth. 

The core is Grenache—whole cluster from Watch Hill blocks, co-fermented with Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, plus little nudges of Roussanne and Viognier. It holds energy and clarity, even as Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc lend just enough grip to shape the finish. Raised in generously sized French oak, the oak influence is felt, but it’s always in conversation with fruit.

On the palate, the wine lifts—a sway of cherry cola, gentle cinnamon, and red-floral whispers. The weight sits in the middle, never overstated, thanks in part to that whole-cluster lift and a softly persistent finish. Tannins are soft, weaving more than they bind, inviting another sip without any theatrics. ([turn0search2])

Built for now, but not passing fancies. Sanguis leans into approachability without compromising nuance—this Optimist wears its optimism lightly, preferring sincerity over flash. It’s at home cold enough to cut through a rich stew or warming up alongside aged gouda, exactly where defined joy lives.