2021 Cayuse, Bionic Frog Syrah, Walla Walla Valley

Christophe Baron's biodynamic commitment at Cayuse Vineyards grounds the Bionic Frog Syrah in a foundational belief that struggling vines on the estate's distinctive Walla Walla Valley "stones" terroir yield profound wines. Sourced from the 4.5-acre, iron-rich Coccinelle Vineyard, these dry-farmed Syrah vines consistently produce low yields of concentrated fruit, reflecting the site's unique geological stress and tendency toward early physiological ripeness. Winemaking emphasizes site expression through native yeasts and partial whole-cluster fermentation, with the 2021 vintage aged for 18 months in primarily neutral vessels, utilizing only 15-20% new French oak puncheons. The warm 2021 growing season, marked by a significant "heat dome" event, delivered a Syrah with notable structural intensity, showcasing firm, well-defined tannins and a vibrant acidity that provides tension and ensures ageability. This results in a concentrated, brooding expression, distinguished by its layered complexity and a firm architectural backbone characteristic of a warm but diligently managed vintage.