The Force Majeure estate Syrah is cultivated in a combination of the 8 soil types that exist in the vineyard, with most of it being planted in very steep, very rocky locations, but some also planted in deeper, loamier soils.
The estate Syrah typically exhibits a broad spectrum of black, blue and red fruits, dried herbs and jasmine, fennel, smoked meats and crushed rock along with very fine tannins, great length, balance and complexity.
"A stunning, world-class wine from Red Mountain, the 2017 Syrah Estate is the finest example yet from this steep, rocky terroir and winemaker Todd Alexander. With extraordinary notes of blackberry, smoked game, cassis, graphite, charred meats, and spring flowers, it’s reminiscent of a top Cote Rotie from the Cote Blonde. With full-bodied richness, a beautiful, layered, multi-dimensional texture, ripe tannins, and integrated oak, it’s beautiful today yet will benefit from short-term cellaring and cruise for 15-20 years or more in cool cellars. This sensational wine will stand toe to toe with the best out there."
- Jeb Dunnuck (April 2020), 99 pts
"Bright, full medium ruby. Youthfully tight aromas of blackberry, blueberry and licorice. At once sweet, precise and fine-grained, with the black fruit flavors lifted by underlying minerality and a floral element. This very fresh, northern Rhône-like Syrah conveys an element of liquid rock without being gamey. Tactile tannins dust the front teeth on the long back end. Very impressive. (14.95% alcohol; vinified with 15% whole clusters in concrete and stainless steel, then aged for 19 months in 20% new 300- and 500-liter French oak barrels; 3.85 pH) - Stephen Tanzer"
- Antonio Galloni's Vinous (December 2019), 93 pts
"The 2016 Syrah Estate checks in as 100% Syrah that saw a small amount of stems. It spent 18 months in 25% new French oak. Deeply colored, it displays a thrilling bouquet of smoked black fruits, violets, smoked meats, charcoal, and graphite. Deep, rich, incredibly fleshy and flamboyant, with perfect balance, it's a serious, world-class Syrah that will keep for 10-15 years."
- Jeb Dunnuck (April 2019), 97 pts
Force Majeure is an ultra-premium winery located in the Walla Walla Valley, specializing in estate-grown, single-vineyard Bordeaux and Rhône-inspired wines. Their wines are meticulously crafted by former Bryant Family Vineyard ...
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