2015 Cayuse Armada Vineyard Syrah

97 Points. The 2015 Syrah Armada Vineyard is superb, wafting from the glass with a complex and savory bouquet of dark chocolate, peat, candied violets, plums and marinading meat. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied, rich and layered, with a deep core of sapid fruit framed by powdery, fine-grained tannins and concluding with a saline finish... —William Kelley, The Wine Advocate 97 Points. The depth and complexity on offer is instantly impressive with smoky bacon and charcuterie notes across gun flint, peppers and an array of mostly red-tinged fruits. The palate has impressively smooth tannins, carrying deeper blue-plum and cherry flavors in a smooth, fine and supple mode. Impressive. Drink or hold. —James Suckling, jamessuckling.com 94 Points. Significantly more lifted and graceful than expected, the 2015 Syrah Armada Vineyard opens with an earthy blend of crushed rocks, black olive tapenade, wilted violets, dried strawberries and licorice. Its textures are elegant and refined, silken and round, with dark red and black fruits that take on a saline mineral intensity toward the finish. Just gently tannic and classically dry the 2015 leaves hints of tart blackberry and a peppery tinge that lingers on. It’s important to note that Cayuse lost the majority of its production to faulty corks in 2015, so for collectors looking to enjoy a Syrah from Christophe Baron in this vintage, the Armada is your only choice. Luckily, it’s also an incredibly beautiful wine with an open and broad drinking window. —Eric Guido, Vinous