The Highest Rated Washington Syrah: 99 for Force Majeure
We've been excitedly eager for our first full-fledged Force Majeure offering. We couldn't have known the fanfare that would come with it. Yesterday, top-notch wine critic Jeb Dunnuck (who left The Wine Advocate to do his own thing) released his annual report on Washington wine and the top scoring Syrah--yes, higher than all the other big names--is Force Majeure's Red Mountain Estate Syrah 2017, with a nearly perfect 99 points! Only K Vintners Royal City Syrah 2016 tied it, but it's twice the price.
We've been floored by the Force Majeure wines we've tasted, especially the textures that winemaker Todd Alexander coaxes from Red Mountain and the overall balance of every single wine. We've selected our three current favorites to begin. We strongly encourage you to get on board early.
$67.45 in any 12 bottle or Build a Case order ($74.95 regular)
99 points Jeb Dunnuck: "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."
Shipping May 1
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$49.45 in any 12 bottle or Build a Case order ($54.95 regular)
Us: A fantastic red blend which opens with a wonderful savory-spicy nose before showing its creamy texture and density, loaded with yummy blue and electric dark red fruits. Delicious for drinking now or in 5-8 years. 60% Cabernet Franc, 33% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Petit Verdot.
95 points Jeb Dunnuck: "This deep ruby/plum-hued effort offers lots of chocolate-laced red and black fruits, smoked earth, tobacco leaf, and truffle notes. Full-bodied, rich, and nicely textured, it has some background oak that should integrate with 3-4 years of bottle age, and it’s going to have a 15-year or longer drink window."
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$44.95 in any 12 bottle or Build a Case order ($49.95 regular)
Us: The review below is too conservative! This is incredible Viognier, as focused and bright as it is rich. Typically a mailing-list-only offering, we have a tiny parcel to share with you. Grab it.
93 points Jeb Dunnuck: "Coming from the estate on Red Mountain, the 2018 Viognier reveals a medium gold hue as well as a pretty bouquet of honeyed peach, toasted spices, and brioche along with ample earthy minerality. It’s rich and textured on the palate yet has terrific purity of fruit as well as precision. It’s going to benefit from 6 months of bottle age and evolve nicely for 3-5 years. If drinking any time soon, give it some air.