2022 Horsepower High Contrast Vineyard Syrah [IWR99][OG98][JS96][D94]

Producer: Cayuse Vineyards  
Region: Walla Walla Valley, Columbia Valley, Washington  
Varietal: Syrah  
Year: 2022  

International Wine Report, 99 Points 

"The 2022 High Contrast Vineyard Syrah boasts a brooding dark purple-blue core with a neon purple rim and unfurls a captivating aromatic profile, where spiced plum compote and grilled blood orange intertwine with smoked paprika, roasted game, and black licorice. Beneath those bold savory elements, hints of balsamic reduction, cracked pink peppercorns, and damp earth emerge, adding layers of intrigue. The palate is expansive yet incredibly refined, draping the tongue with a velvety, almost weightless texture. Dark cherries and mulled blueberries lead, while a vein of crushed rock minerality and saline-driven savoriness intensify its depth. Lively acidity keeps everything impeccably structured, lending energy to the wine’s rich concentration. As it unfurls, lingering echoes of tobacco leaf, charred rosemary, and cacao nibs leave a lasting impression. Intensely complex yet effortlessly graceful, this is a masterfully crafted Syrah that delivers both raw power and undeniable elegance. Highly recommended." 

Owen Bargreen, 98 Points 

"The 2022 Horsepower Vineyards ‘High Contrast Vineyard’ Syrah is sourced from vines set on a combination of ancient cobblestones and silty loam soils. Stored for 15 months in all neutral oak barrels, this opens with suggestions of black tea, Mandarin orange zest and exotic spices alongside beef brisket, Kalamata olive, charcuterie and smoldering stones. The palate is plush and soft with a pillowy texture and beautiful underlying acidity. Salty and savory, enjoy this beauty now and over the next eight years. Drink 2024-2032." 

James Suckling, 96 Points 

"Bold and mineral-driven, this syrah shows a striking mix of cracked pepper, dried thyme and graphite, underpinned by ripe blackberries and smoked ham. The midpalate feels supple with layers of dark fruit yet is framed with firm, lightly chewy tannins. The structure leads to a deeply earthy, saline-tinged finish that lingers with hints of iodine and iron. From biodynamically grown grapes. Best after 2029." 

Decanter, 94 Points 

"In the High Contrast Vineyard, the stones change over to silty loam soil; this 100% Syrah leans into aromatics of roast nori, smoky soy and briny black olives. The palate shows some glimpses of red fruits that fade into notes of smoky clove, white pepper and smoky spices. It's savoury and rich." 

Alcohol: 13.8% 

*Discounts do not apply to items like this one in the Fine & Rare category. Price and availability in store may vary.