Previously known as Grand Rêve, Force Majeure was founded in 2004 by Paul McBride and Ryan Johnson. Force Majeure pairs some of Washington’s highly acclaimed winemakers with fruit from one of Washington’s highly acclaimed vineyards, Ciel du Cheval. The winemakers contributing to the Collaboration Series is a Who’s Who of Washington winemakers including Ben Smith, Carolyn Lakewold, Chris Gorman, James Mantone, Mark McNeilly, Mike McMorran and Ross Mickel.
The CS III is 100% Syrah made by Mark McNeilly of Mark Ryan.
Purple in color. 14.9% ABV. Savory aromas of blue fruits, violets, minerals and game. Rich and concentrated with perfect balance of acid and tannin. Blueberries, pepper, grilled meat, chocolate and espresso on the palate. Delicious and wickedly decadent. The finish is exceptionally long. Drink over the next 3-5 years
My rating: 94 points.
In just a few short years Force Majeure has become one of the top 5 Syrah producers in Washington. Look for the 2010 version that was released last year. $55 at the winery and retail.
Force Majeure warrants your attention and (as I write this) the winery is still accepting names for their mailing list.
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OK, now I’m curious, what are your top 5 syrah producers in WA? Here’s my shot at it (In no particular order): Cayuse, Reynvann, Betz, Gramercy, Proper.
Cayuse, Force Majeure, Betz, Reynvaan and No Girls. Hard to go wrong with Rasa, Gramercy, Efeste and so many others.