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. Elizabeth Bourcier is the Vigneron at Cayuse.
The fruit for GOK is sourced from Armada Vineyard which was planted in 2001. Other wines from the vineyard include the Armada Syrah and Edith Grenache Rosé.
Ruby red in color. 13.6% ABV. Terrific nose of red fruits, olive brine and smoked meats. Medium body with strong acidity. Concentrated and balanced with an abundance of savory fruits. Cherry, iodine, blood and minerals on the palate. Tremendous length on the finish. The Cayuse funk is barely present here but hallmarks of the Rocks District are ever present. Best over the next several years.
My rating: 92 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.