Brand: Cayuse
Country: USA
Region: Washington
Vintage: 2022
Rating: 96
Farming Practice: Biodynamic
Practicing Biodynamic • 97% Syrah, 3% Viognier • Walla Walla Valley AVA • Cailloux Vineyard • Topsoil mix of silty loam and basalt cobblestones • Aged 18 months in French oak, 15-20% new • 870 cases produced • 13.8% abv
Christophe’s first Walla Walla Valley vineyard, this 10-acre plot was the first vineyard planted in the stones of Milton Freewater in 1997, and produces the flagship Cailloux Syrah.
JS96: Complex and tightly wound, this syrah, co-fermented with just a dash of viognier, offers a broad spectrum of aromas. Smoked meat, black olives, crushed violets and thyme are layered with blackberries and a hint of iodine. The palate is deep and structured, balancing juicy acidity with fine but broad and dusty tannins. The savory finish lingers, showing cracked pepper and turned earth. Very tight and compact, this needs some time in bottle. From biodynamically grown grapes. Try from 2028.