Outward Wines 'Sendero Luminoso' Red Blend, Central Coast, California 2024

Sendero Luminoso—Spanish for “Shining Path”—is a bold reinterpretation of the classic Rhône GSM blend. Here, Grenache is replaced by Vaccarèse, a rare varietal native to Châteauneuf-du-Pape and planted in only two known vineyards in North America. This 'SVM' blend (Syrah, Vaccarèse, Mourvèdre) is both a revolution and a revelation, built from three distinct Central Coast vineyards that capture the complexity and diversity of California's terroir.

• WINEMAKER: Ryan Pace and Natalie Siddique

• FARMING: Organic practices (site-farmed Syrah from Starfire Vineyard)

• VARIETY: 60% Syrah, 30% Vaccarèse, 10% Mourvèdre

• TERROIR:

  • Starfire Vineyard (Syrah) — Santa Barbara County; coastal influence with alluvial soils

  • Old Oak Vineyard (Vaccarèse) — Paso Robles; rare planting on warm, rocky terrain

  • Rancho Arroyo Grande (Mourvèdre) — SLO Coast; high-toned site with marine sedimentary soils

• VINIFICATION: Each variety fermented separately with site-specific methods:

  • Syrah: a mix of 100% destemmed lots and carbonic fermentation

  • Vaccarèse: 50% whole cluster

  • Mourvèdre: 30% whole cluster
    The components were aged for 6 months in neutral oak. Bottled April 2025 without fining or filtration, using minimal sulfur.

• AGING: 6 months in neutral oak

• TASTING NOTES: Vivid aromas of blackberry, violets, cured meats, and herbs de Provence. The palate is structured yet generous, with supple tannins, deep fruit, and a savory, lingering finish.

• FOOD PAIRINGS: Grilled lamb, eggplant with za'atar, mushroom ragù, or any dish with char and umami