Cayuse Vineyards - Walla Walla Valley Cailloux Vineyard Syrah 2020

The vineyard is located in a specific area of the Walla Walla Valley called The Stones of Milton-Freewater. Soils: These are old riverbeds filled with smooth basaltic pebbles (the famous "stones"). Thermal Effect: The pebbles store the sun's heat during the day and release it at night, promoting optimal maturation and a very pronounced saline mineral signature. The Unexpected: Unlike the majority of the region which produces powerful and oaky wines, the soils of Cayuse produce "funky", earthy, and incredibly fresh wines. The Philosophy: Biodynamics and High Density Christophe Baron was a pioneer of sustainable viticulture in the American Northwest: Biodynamics: The domaine has been certified biodynamic since 2002. No chemical fertilizers or pesticides are used; plant-based preparations and respect for lunar cycles are preferred. High Density: The vines are planted very closely together (up to 10,000 vines per hectare for some plots), which forces the roots to plunge deep into the basalt to seek water and nutrients. Franc de Pied Vines: Some plots are planted without rootstock, which is rare and allows for an even purer expression of the grape variety.