Margerum 2023 M5 Red Wine Santa Barbara County

This 2023 release of the M5 from Margerum Wine Company is a brilliantly expressive Rhône-style red from California’s Santa Barbara County—poised, juicy and rich without ever feeling heavy. It delivers vivid fruit, layered complexity and broad appeal in one elegant bottle.

Origins & Craftsmanship

Crafted in Santa Barbara County, the “M5” represents Margerum’s flagship blend, focused on Rhône-inspired varietals and meticulous vineyard sourcing across multiple sub-regions including Santa Ynez Valley, Sta. Rita Hills, Los Olivos District, San Luis Obispo and Happy Canyon. The 2023 vintage uses approximately 45% Grenache, 32% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre, 7% Counoise and 6% Cinsault. Grapes are harvested from low-yield sites and fermented parcel-by-parcel before being matured in mostly neutral barrels, a few new French oak barrels and large puncheons, allowing fruit purity and site character to dominate.

Tasting Profile

Nose: A striking bouquet of red and dark berries—plum, blueberry—with aromatic lift of lavender and mint, peppercorn spice and savory chaparral brush.
Palate: Medium to full-bodied and finely textured: juicy black cherry and blueberry, layered with currant and soft bramble, framed by peppery spice, roasted herb and a subtle char/earth edge from the barrel regime. Fine, integrated tannins and lively acidity give the wine energy and drive.
Finish: Clean and sustained—fruit skin, spice and herbal under-brush linger, while a mineral-tinged seam and gently warming oak whisper promise of further evolution.

Quick Overview

"Black cherries, blackberries, peppery herbs, smoked earth, and some earthy nuances all emerge from the 2023 M5 Red, a richer, mouth-filling, medium-bodied red based on 45% Grenache, 32% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre, and the rest Counoise and Cinsault. It has the pure, elegant style of the vintage and is nicely balanced." Jeb Dunnuck 91 Points