Joey Tensley has one of those “pulled himself up by the bootstraps” backstories. Originally just a farmboy from Bakersfield, he headed west toward the ocean some 20+ years ago and became a cellar rat at Fess Parker Winery. It was there he founded his eponymously-named winery with four barrels and hasn’t looked back. Considered a Central Coast master of Rhône varieties, he now owns vineyards, produces wine under several different labels and consults on some high-profile winery projects in the area.

One of the vineyards owned and farmed by Joey is the Colson Canyon Vineyard in Los Olivos. Although the 2023 Syrah will mellow out a bit with time in the cellar, there’s no reason to override any I don’t wanna drink this too soon inhibitions, so go ahead, put some meat on the grill (ideally red oak) and just pop the bottle already!