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. In recent years the winery transitioned from Collaboration wines to Estate wines. Todd Alexander, formerly of Bryant Family Vineyards, is the winemaker for the Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Tempranillo. Force Majeure has a new winery in Milton Freewater, Oregon.
The CS IV was made by Carolyn Lakewold of Donedei Winery.
Dark crimson in color. 14.8% ABV. 72% Merlot, 16% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Cabernet Franc and 4% Petit Verdot. Heady nose of ripe fruits, leather and violets. Silky, plush and approachable. Full bodied with loads of upfront fruit. Black currants, tobacco, milk chocolate and herbs on the palate. Exceptional length on the finish with resolved tannins. Outstanding Merlot that is ready to drink. Best over the next several years.
My rating: 93 points.
Force Majeure is one of the most exciting wineries in Washington. The winery is still accepting names for the mailing list. If the Cayuse Release Party goes down in April of next year I do hope to visit the new winery in person.