2020 Syrah Bionic Frog

The 2020s from Cayuse are impossible to ignore. Before the smoke events leading up to harvest, producers in Washington State were excited about the qualities of a year that was warm yet evenly so. The trick was how winemakers dealt with the smoke. In many cases, this meant declassifying juice and reducing quantities. Yet it’s incredible how many portfolios seem to be widely unaffected. As for Cayuse, I find the same depth and complexity that I typically associate with this fantastic collection, along with a clear definition of terroir yet softer textures and chalky tannins that allow for more immediate pleasure. How will they age? The balance is there, along with vibrant fruit and acidity. If anything, I shortened my usual drinking windows by a few years, yet I wouldn’t be surprised if these wines are still singing even further down the road. Readers lucky to have a spot on this highly allocated list should not hesitate to place these in the cellar. Vigneron Elizabeth Bourcier did a fantastic job with this vintage.