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.
Dark rust in color. 14.1% ABV. 100% Cabernet Sauvignon sourced from En Chamberlin Vineyard. Black fruits, graphite and currants on the nose. Lush and elegant with just light acidity. Black cherry, cassis liqueur, coffee and plums on the palate. Sweet, delicious, hedonistic wine. There is length and depth on the finish with silky tannins shining through. This wine is in a great spot right now.
My rating: 93 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!
For more on Cayuse please see The Zinfandel Chronicles Power Rankings and Winery Mailing Lists: The Fab 5.
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