Force Majeure was founded in 2004 by Paul McBride and made its name pairing some of Washington’s highly acclaimed winemakers with fruit from one of Washington’s highly acclaimed vineyards, Ciel du Cheval. The winery recently transitioned from Collaboration wines to Estate wines. Todd Alexander, formerly of Bryant Family Vineyards, is the winemaker for the Estate Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. There is also a second label that was introduced last year named Parabellum. Even more changes are in the works including a new label and a Force Majeure Tempranillo.
The CS IV is 60% Merlot, 26% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot. Carolyn Lakewold made the wine.
Violet in color. 13.8% ABV. Breathtaking nose of cassis liqueur, scorched earth and molten licorice. Plush and exceedingly concentrated. Black cherries, cassis, currants and chocolate truffle on the palate. The finish is exceptionally long with silky tannins. Fantastic Merlot that is in the conversation for the best version of this variety made in Washington. Drink over the next 2-4 years.
My rating: 93 points.
Force Majeure is one of the most exciting wineries in the state. The winery is still accepting names for the mailing list.
I’m going to miss the CS wines and in particular the Merlot dominant CS IV but am excited about the direction Paul McBride has in mind for Force Majeure.
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