Previously known as Grand Rêve, Force Majeure was founded in 2004 by Paul McBride and Ryan Johnson. Force Majeure pairs some of Washington’s highly acclaimed winemakers with fruit from one of Washington’s highly acclaimed vineyards, Ciel du Cheval. The winemakers contributing to the Collaboration Series is a Who’s Who of Washington winemakers including Ben Smith, Carolyn Lakewold, Chris Gorman, James Mantone, Mark McNeilly, Mike McMorran and Ross Mickel.
The CS III is 100% Syrah made by Mark McNeilly of Mark Ryan.
Purple in color. 14.9% ABV. Spectacular nose of blue fruits, minerals, game and flowers. Rich, plush and full bodied with excellent acidity. Blueberries, smoked meats, violets, blackberries and espresso on the palate. Supple tannins on a endless finish. Drink over the next 3-5 years.
My rating: 94 points.
In just a few short years Force Majeure has become one of the top 5 Syrah producers in Washington. Look for the 2010 version that was released last year. $55 at the winery and retail.
Force Majeure warrants your attention and (as I write this) the winery is still accepting names for their mailing list.
In other news Force Majeure recently announced the hiring of Todd Alexander, formerly of Bryant Family Vineyards, as the winemaker for the Force Majeure Estate wines.
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