The only Syrah from this great estate that's co-fermented with Viognier, the 2020 Syrah Cailloux Vineyard reveals a translucent ruby hue as well as classic Rocks (or as Christophe likes to call the region, the Stones) aromatics of red and black cherries, sous bois, smoked earth, rose petals, and ground pepper. It's another more medium to full-bodied, very pretty, graceful, balanced release from this team offering fine tannins, beautiful overall balance, and a great finish. As with many 2020s here, it doesn't have the density of the great vintages but shines for its beautiful balance and purity.
95 points, Jeb Dunnuck (Jun 2023)
Such expressive and earnest syrah character, with swathes of peppery aromas here. White pepper, rosemary stems, salted olives, wild raspberries, licorice, smoked meat and grilled herbs on the nose, with a hint of peach. Focused and tight on the palate, with medium body and very tight tannins. Mineral and peppery. 96% syrah and 4% viognier, co-fermented. From biodynamically grown grapes.
95 points, Claire Nesbitt, James Suckling (Mar 2023)
Displaying a deep magenta core, the 2020 Syrah Cailloux Vineyard was made with 4% Viognier. The nose is spicy, focused and firm with hints of reduction, savory herbs, black and green peppercorn, bitter black tea, dark cherry skin and wilted flowers. Medium to full-bodied, the palate displays a firm tannic edge that grows in amplitude before showing subtle flavors of stewed cherries, roasted almonds and hints of vanilla. It ends with a food-friendly and generous finish. The wine rested for 18 months in about 20% new French oak barrels. 10,392 bottles produced.
94 points, Anthony Mueller, Wine Advocate (May 2023)
The 2020 Syrah Cailloux Vineyard is born of the earth, dusty and savory, with a burst of crushed rock and gravel giving way to air-dried meat and smoky olive tones. This is surprisingly energetic and spry, with a salty flourish and ripe red and black fruits. The zesty acidity provides an unbelievably juicy sensation. It finishes fresh and lightly structured with building tension, ending with licorice and spiced blood orange notes. The 2020 is already so enjoyable that it's hard to advise waiting, but I expect the best is yet to come. The Syrah Cailloux Vineyard is 70% wholeclusters, co-fermented with about 6% of Viognier from Cayuse's oldest vines planted in 1997.
94 points, Eric Guido, Vinous (May 2023)
Attractive and refined, with handsome blueberry and raspberry flavors accented by river stone and black olive. Builds structure and tension toward medium-grained tannins. Drink now through 2032.
93 points, Tim Fish, Wine Spectator (May 2023)
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