2011 Force Majeure Syrah Ciel du Cheval Vineyard Collaboration Series II

Made by Ross Michel with the goal of fashioning a northern Rhone-styled Syrah, the 2011 Collaboration Series II is 96% Syrah co-fermented with 2% each of Viognier and Roussanne that will spend roughly 20 months in 30% new French oak. A big Syrah, especially by 2011 standards, it possesses loads of meaty, peppery notions as well as a core of creme de cassis, black raspberry, underbrush and spice. Rich, full-bodied and fleshy, with moderate acidity, gorgeous purity and layers of sweet fruit, it should be accessible at an earlier stage than the 2010 and have 10-15 years of longevity. Drink 2014-2026. Focusing on site specific fruit (Red Mountain) and utilizing a variety of top winemakers who each make a specific style of wine, Force Majeure (formerly Grand Reve) is the brain child of entrepreneur Paul McBride and vineyard manager Ryan Johnson. I’ve raved about this producer in the past, and I continue to do so here. If anyone doubts that great wine is made in the vineyard, I urge you to taste through this lineup as the quality of the fruit shows in each wine, regardless of the winemaker. While this estate pulls heavily from the Ciel du Cheval vineyard, their estate Force Majeure Vineyard, which is located at the very top of Red Mountain on very steep slopes (I had car “issues” trying to get up them during my first visit in 2010) is just now coming on line and is already showing ample promise. I’ve put these wines in numerous blind tastings with the best wines in the world and they always hold their own. Don’t miss them. www.forcemajeurevineyards.com