2015 Cayuse "Armada Vineyard" Walla Walla Valley Syrah

“The depth and complexity on offer is instantly impressive with smoky bacon and charcuterie notes across gun flint, peppers and an array of mostly red-tinged fruits. The palate has impressively smooth tannins, carrying deeper blue-plum and cherry flavors in a smooth, fine and supple mode. Impressive.” (08/2018)

“The 2015 Syrah Armada Vineyard is superb, wafting from the glass with a complex and savory bouquet of dark chocolate, peat, candied violets, plums and marinading meat. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied, rich and layered, with a deep core of sapid fruit framed by powdery, fine-grained tannins and concluding with a saline finish. Seamlessly integrated and elegant, the 2015 was harvested on September 9 and fermented with 60% to 70% whole clusters, finishing with 13.7% natural alcohol. (WK)” (06/2018)

“The only Syrah bottled in 2015 due to issues with corks, the 2015 Syrah Armada Vineyard is a classic expression of this vineyard and gives up a rocking bouquet of ripe black cherries, peat moss, sous bois, tapenade and scorched earth. It’s medium to full-bodied, silky and polished on the palate, with sweet tannin, impeccable balance, and great finish.” (04/2018)

“The 2015 Cayuse Armada Vineyard Syrah is an absolutely spectacular effort from this warm vintage. First planted in 2001, the Armada Vineyard has evolved to be truly one of the top vineyards in the state. The Syrah begins with wonderfully perfumed aromatics of tar, umami, black olive tapenade, smoked brisket, and peat moss that slowly build in the glass. The acidity instantly strikes you, as the palate shows vivid flavors of meat, wild mushroom, peat moss, umami, blood orange rind and suggestions of Asian spices. Silky smooth through the mid-palate, this stunning wine continues to impress until the very end, as the mouth-watering acidity offer a wonderful sense of freshness. (OB)” (08/2018)

“Significantly more lifted and graceful than expected, the 2015 Syrah Armada Vineyard opens with an earthy blend of crushed rocks, black olive tapenade, wilted violets, dried strawberries and licorice. Its textures are elegant and refined, silken and round, with dark red and black fruits that take on a saline mineral intensity toward the finish. Just gently tannic and classically dry the 2015 leaves hints of tart blackberry and a peppery tinge that lingers on. It’s important to note that Cayuse lost the majority of its production to faulty corks in 2015, so for collectors looking to enjoy a Syrah from Christophe Baron in this vintage, the Armada is your only choice. Luckily, it’s also an incredibly beautiful wine with an open and broad drinking window. (EG)” (10/2024)