Tensley

Nestled in the picturesque embrace of California’s Santa Ynez Valley, Tensley Wines stands as a testament to winemaking excellence, driven by the vision and dedication of its founder and winemaker, Joey Tensley. Established in 1998, this distinguished winery has not only earned its place among California’s wine elite but has also redefined the art of winemaking in the region.

Born and raised in the picturesque landscapes of Santa Barbara County, Joey Tensley’s journey into the world of winemaking was ignited at the tender age of twelve during a soccer tournament in France. It was a pivotal moment when he and his team ventured into a local winery. The chilling air of the old cellars and the intoxicating aromas of fermenting wines left an indelible mark on young Joey’s soul, sowing the seeds of a dream that would set him apart in his hometown of Bakersfield.

Joey’s formal foray into winemaking commenced in 1993 when he became a “cellar rat” at Fess Parker Winery. With dedication and an insatiable thirst for knowledge, he swiftly ascended the ranks, eventually becoming the assistant winemaker at Babcock Vineyards within just three years. It was during this transformative period that Joey’s appreciation for the significance of vineyards and grape growers was solidified.

Recognizing the unique microclimates and terroir of Santa Barbara County, especially the impact of the east-west mountain range, Joey Tensley envisioned a winemaking philosophy that celebrated the distinctiveness of each vineyard site. In 1998, this vision took a significant step forward as Joey assumed the role of assistant winemaker at Beckmen Vineyards. It was here that he fell in love with Rhône varietals and made a pivotal decision to exclusively focus on these grape varieties, sourcing them exclusively from Santa Barbara County.

This unwavering dedication and foresight would soon pay off. The critical acclaim for Tensley Wines began to roll in, with notable figures like Matt Kramer of the Wine Spectator and the revered Robert Parker taking note as early as 2001. Joey Tensley’s commitment to crafting wines that authentically represented their terroir was proving to be a game-changer in the world of California winemaking.

Throughout the years, Tensley’s dedication to showcasing the unique characteristics of Santa Barbara County’s vineyards has remained unwavering. The winery’s extensive portfolio boasts an impressive collection of single-vineyard Syrahs. Each year, less than 250 cases are meticulously produced for each vineyard, allowing the individuality of the sites to shine through in every bottle.

Joey Tensley’s commitment to allowing the vineyards to speak for themselves is further exemplified by his wife, Jennifer, who produces single-vineyard Rosé, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay wines under the Lea Wines label. This dedication to terroir-driven winemaking has garnered numerous accolades, including recognition in the Wine Spectator’s Top 100 and a Food and Wine Magazine award for the “Top Syrah in America over $20.”

In addition to their renowned Syrah offerings, Tensley also crafts a small quantity of Grenache Blanc, Roussanne, and Grenache wines, showcasing their versatility and expertise across different varietals. Their 2017 venture, the launch of “Fundamental Wines,” embodies Joey Tensley’s philosophy of crafting fundamentally sound, straightforward wines that consistently over-deliver for their price.

Despite Tensley’s growth and acclaim over the years, Joey Tensley remains steadfast in his commitment to quality and affordability. His ethos, deeply rooted in the idea that the vineyard should be allowed to speak for itself, has been the guiding force behind Tensley Wines’ remarkable journey, establishing it as a respected and influential player in the California wine scene.

Today, Tensley Wines continues to be a beacon of excellence in Santa Barbara County, inviting wine enthusiasts from around the world to explore the rich tapestry of terroir and passion woven into each bottle. From the compelling Tensley Colson Canyon Syrah to the nuanced Lea Wines offerings and the approachable Fundamental Wines, the legacy of Joey Tensley’s winemaking artistry endures, inviting all to raise a glass and savor the essence of Santa Barbara County’s finest vineyards.