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.
The fruit for GOK is sourced from Armada Vineyard which was planted in 2001. At 1815 vines per acre, the 7-acre site, was the highest density planting in the Walla Walla Valley until 2008. Other wines from the vineyard include the Armada Syrah and Edith Grenache Rosé.
Crimson in color. 13.6% ABV. Savory nose of red fruits, ash, olive brine and flowers. Medium body with just enough acidity. Dark and brooding on the palate with flavors of cherry, strawberry, smoke and minerals. Exceptional length on the finish. Truly unique Grenache that is drinking beautifully at 10 years of age. The last of a 3 pack for me but this will drink well for several more years.
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!
The Christophe Baron portfolio, known as Bionic Wines, includes Cayuse, Horsepower , No Girls, Hors Categorie and Champagne Christophe Baron. I am not sure what is next on the horizon for Christophe but I look forward to being a part of it.
I blogged about Cayuse previously in The 2020 Zinfandel Chronicles Power Rankings, Winery Mailing Lists: The Fab 5 and Cayuse Vineyards – Better than Ever.
Lastly, Cayuse Release Weekend is back in 2023 after a three year break because of the pandemic. The event is happening April 7th and 8th and I can’t wait.