La Rata was founded by Elizabeth Bourcier in 2012. Bourcier, Cayuse’s assistant Vigneron, was inspired by Clos Erasmus of the Priorat region of Spain and crafted this blend. The wine was originally a blend of Grenache from Armada Vineyard and Cabernet from En Cerise Vineyard. Syrah from La Paciencia Vineyard was added with the 2014 vintage. The unique blend was named “The Rat” and thus the Spanish influence, La Rata. The name reflects Bourcier’s zodiac sign, the rat, and also that despite being assistant winemaker at Cayuse, she still considers herself a cellar rat.
Ruby red in color. 13.7% ABV. 59% Grenache, 31% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Syrah. Savory nose of red fruits, olive brine, bacon fat and flowers. Medium body with perfect acidity. Impressive concentration and structure. Tremendous purity of fruit. Cherry, strawberry, olive tapenade and smoked meats on the palate. Exceptional length on the finish. The Grenache is the hero here. Very approachable now but this will age well. Best over the next 4-6 years.
My rating: 96 points.
La Rata only makes this single wine. The winery does not have a mailing list but makes this blend available via Full Pull Wines. I’ve been fortunate to acquire all vintages to date and look forward to following this project in the years to come.
Worth noting that the La Rata project has ended with the 2022s that were released via Full Pull in September. So while none of us can follow this project in the years to come, those of us lucky enough to have bottles stashed away can instead maybe enjoy them a little more.
For sure and I should have mentioned that. Fortunately, I still have a healthy stash dating back to the 14. Cheers!