| Score: |
96 RP.
"The dark ruby, opaque 2012 Syrah en Chamberlin Vineyard is a classic example of this vineyard. Gamy, complex and nuanced, with lots of olive tapenade, ground herbs, charcoal and wood smoke, as well as a beautiful core of dark fruit, it has full-bodied richness, building tannin, and a light, elegant texture. One of the more approachable 2012s from Christoph, it still doesn't lack for tannic grip. It offers plenty of pleasure now, but should have 15 years or more of longevity. As I've said numerous times, Christophe Baron and assistant winemaker Elizabeth Bourcier produce some of the most singular and impressive wines out there. Looking at the 2012s, these were slightly more streamlined and linear than I remembered from barrel, yet are still incredible wines that show the quality of the vintage. The 2013s follow suit and are lively, fresh and focused wines. I think the style here has shifted slightly, and while I miss some of the exuberant flesh and concentration of prior vintages, these new releases have beautiful purity and elegance, I'm just not sure they're better wines. Other developments here include the completion of a new winery that's located just behind the old studio. Made in a modern, clean and functional style, it's a beautiful building and count yourself lucky if you're able to finagle a tour. In addition to these Cayuse releases, don't miss the No Girls (made by Bourcier) and Rata releases which are also included in this report." Wine Advocate #219, Jun 2015 |