Bottle Notes, Grenache

2011 Force Majeure Collaboration Series Grenache – Bottle Notes

Force Majeure was founded in 2004 by Paul McBride and made its name pairing some of Washington’s highly acclaimed winemakers with fruit from one of Washington’s highly acclaimed vineyards, Ciel du Cheval.  The winery recently transitioned from Collaboration wines to Estate wines. Todd Alexander, formerly of Bryant Family Vineyards, is the winemaker for the Estate Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. There is also a second label that was introduced last year named Parabellum.

85% Grenache and 15% Mourvedre made by James Mantone of Syncline.

Bright crimson in color. 15.9% ABV. Subdued nose of red fruits, gravel and kirsch. Full bodied with optimal acidity and great mouthfeel. Richly textured and well balanced. Cherries, cassis, black raspberries and white pepper on the palate. The finish is long and pure. Pretty wine and the Mourvedre might be the here here. Drink over the next 5-7 years.

My rating: 92 points.

Force Majeure is one of the most exciting wineries in the state. The winery is still accepting names for the mailing list .

I’m going to miss the CS wines and in particular the Merlot dominant CS IV but am excited about the direction Paul McBride has in mind for Force Majeure.

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