2012 Force Majeure Collaboration Series III Ciel du Cheval Vineyard
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Tasting notes
(100% Syrah; made by Mark McNeilly): Bright, deep ruby. Rather oaky aromas of musky red berries, mocha and chocolate. Plush and savory in the mouth, with the sweet oaky quality carrying through on the palate. A rather polite, backward style of Syrah for all its richness, with the musky berry flavors dominating. Oaky and a touch warm on the finish, which shows tongue-dusting tannins and a faint dryness. A bit stunted today, this Syrah needs at least a couple years to express itself.
Critic scores
Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
The 2012 Collaboration Series III is flat-out awesome and checked in at the top of the barrel review from last year. Made by Mike MacMorran (and the estate’s new winemaker, Todd Alexander) and the estate’s take on Red Mountain Syrah, it gives up classic pepper, blackcurrants, smoked meats and crushed rock to go with a full-bodied, layered, multidimensional, pure and seamless style on the palate. This beauty doesn’t put a foot wrong, and with more time in the glass, shows more and more structure. Give it 3-4 years in the cellar and enjoy bottles through 2032.