2018 Horsepower Sur Echalas Vineyard Grenache | Walla Walla Valley Washington 750ml

There are two Grenache cuvees under the Horsepower label, both single vineyards. Starting with the 2018 Grenache Sur Echalas Vineyard, it has a deeper ruby/plum color as well as a spectacular nose of ripe cherry and strawberry fruits intermixed with lots of white pepper, dried flowers, orange blossom, and sandalwood. With medium to full-bodied richness, firm tannins, and beautiful depth of fruit on the palate, it might be the closest thing to Rayas that I've tasted, from anywhere. It remains to be seen if this can evolve into the same category at maturity, but no kidding around, this is a beautiful, elegant, seamless Grenache. It needs 3-4 years, if not longer, to let some tannins melt away... | 96+ Jeb Dunnuck for jebdunnuck.com

Christophe Baron has been a pioneer of Biodynamic farming in the Walla Walla Valley of Eastern Washington. His vineyard sites are farmed in the same fashion as his Cayuse Vineyards with no herbicide, no pesticide, no fungicide, and no synthetic fertilizers. The tight meter by meter spacing with 1 vine per stake - "sur echalas" in French - allows just enough space for cultivation by Horse. The wines are a direct representation of their artisanal craftsmanship.