Introduction
The 2020 Fess Parker "The Big Easy" Proprietary Red is a bold, full-bodied blend that pays homage to the spirit of New Orleans while showcasing the unique terroir of Santa Barbara County. This wine is crafted with a mix of Syrah, Petite Sirah, and Grenache, delivering a powerful profile packed with dark fruit, spice, and a lush, velvety texture that makes it a standout for lovers of big, intense reds.

Terrior
Santa Barbara County's Mediterranean climate, with warm days and cool nights, allows for the full ripening of red varietals while preserving acidity. The coastal influence, combined with the region’s varied soils of sand, clay, and loam, provides a balanced environment that helps develop both intensity and elegance in the grapes. This terroir accentuates the richness and depth of Syrah, Petite Sirah, and Grenache, resulting in a wine that’s both opulent and balanced.

Appearance
Inky purple with deep ruby edges, showing impressive density and viscosity in the glass, hinting at its richness and high alcohol content.

Nose
The nose is intense and layered, with aromas of blackberry, black cherry, and blueberry compote. Rich notes of black pepper, smoked meat, and espresso mingle with subtle hints of vanilla, dark chocolate, and toasted oak, providing complexity and depth.

Palate
On the palate, "The Big Easy" is lush and full-bodied, with a core of ripe black and blue fruits—blackberry, plum, and blueberry. Layers of mocha, vanilla, and black pepper unfold alongside earthy undertones of tobacco and leather. The tannins are robust yet silky, providing structure and balance to the rich fruit. The acidity is well-integrated, adding freshness that balances the wine’s intensity.

Finish
The finish is long and decadent, leaving lingering flavors of dark chocolate, black cherry, and a touch of smoky oak. The spice and fruit intensity persist, making for a memorable and satisfying conclusion.

Overall Impression
The 2020 Fess Parker "The Big Easy" Proprietary Red is a hedonistic wine that will appeal to fans of rich, bold reds. Its deep fruit profile, complex spice, and velvety texture make it perfect for pairing with hearty dishes or enjoying on its own. This wine is a powerful, well-balanced representation of Santa Barbara's ability to produce big, structured reds that still retain finesse.

Published Rankings
Jeb Dunnuck Rating: 92

Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 15.5%
Farming Practices: Sustainable
Producer Name: Fess Parker Winery
Old World / New World: New World
Country of Origin: United States
Region: Santa Barbara County, California
Grape Varietals: Syrah, Petite Sirah, Grenache
Vintage: 2020
Wine Style: Red, Full-Bodied
Winemaking Techniques: Aged in French and American oak barrels, some new and some neutral
Pack Size: 750ml
Container Style: Glass bottle
Closure Style: Cork