Cayuse was founded in 1997 by Christophe Baron, a native of France who grew up in family of winemakers in Champagne. Baron studied viticulture in Burgundy and Champagne, and had ambitions to make Pinot Noir in Oregon. However, on a visit to Walla Walla he found property that he believed would be perfect for growing grapes and decided to purchase the land.
Cailloux was the first vineyard planted by Christophe in 1997.
Crimson in color. 14.1% ABV. Aromas of cherries, smoke and olive. Deep and rich. Cherries, plums, iodine, saline and bacon fat on the palate. The cherry component on this wine is just massive. The finish goes on forever. Slight tannins. Drink over the next 1-3 years.
My rating: 94 points.
The waiting list for the Cayuse mailing list is huge and you need to be well-connected to get a bottle via retail. Either way, current vintages are worth the hunt!
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