Cayuse Vineyards God Only Knows Armada Vineyard Grenache 2011

Country: USA
Region and Appellation: Walla Walla Valley

Cayuse Vineyards God Only Knows Armada Vineyard Grenache 2011 emerged from the coldest vintage on record in Walla Walla, creating what winemaker Christophe Baron describes as the closest his USA estate will ever come to Pinot Noir character. This challenging year demanded exceptional vineyard management, resulting in a wine of remarkable finesse and longevity from one of America's most celebrated biodynamic producers.

Triumph Over Adversity

Despite never reaching 100°F that summer and facing frost challenges, Baron's uncompromising farming on rocky cobblestone soils yielded concentrated fruit aged 21 months in neutral French oak puncheons. The 90% Grenache blend showcases why Cayuse commands cult status among red wines globally.

Critical Success

Wine Advocate awarded 96 points, calling it "shockingly good in the vintage" with "lite gunpowder, ground pepper, herbs and wild strawberry" leading to a "knockout Grenache" drinking perfectly from 2016-2026.

Owen Bargreen later awarded the same score in his retrospective, praising the "wonderfully smoky character with red currant jelly, blood orange, Umami, and smoked brisket" with "wonderful verve and tension".

Winemaker Elizabeth Baron notes the "savory and mineral-driven aspects" with distinctive texture that showcases how great wines emerge even from cool vintages. This cool-climate expression proves Cayuse's mastery—a sophisticated Grenache rivaling fine Burgundy.

Grenache

Dry

750mL