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.
En Cerise Vineyard was planted in 1998. Translated from French, it means cherry – appropriate as the site was a former orchard.
Ruby red in color. 14.2% ABV. Cherries, olives, grilled meats and iron on the nose. Medium body with perfect acidity. Absolutely great mouthfeel and texture. Cherries, blueberries, tea, iodine and olive tapenade on the palate. The tannins are fully resolved. The finish seems to linger for a minute or so. Beautiful Syrah. Textbook Cayuse. Drink over the next 2-3 years.
My rating: 95 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!
I blogged about Cayuse previously in The Zinfandel Chronicles Power Rankings, Cayuse 2014 Release Party and Winery Mailing Lists: The Fab 5.
If you enjoyed this post please consider subscribing to Zinfandel Chronicles updates by email.