Today we share one of the most unique wines made in North America. Originally a trial project, Elizabeth Bourcier’s La Rata Red Wine has become one of the outstanding cult wines out of the Pacific Northwest. Originally initially inspired by the insanely good Clos Erasmus wines of the Priorat region, Elizabeth made the bold decision blend both Grenache and Cabernet Sauvignon together, since they wines tend to ripen at the similar times on the stony terroir of Milton-Freewater. Elizabeth chose to use Grenache from Armada Vineyard and Cabernet Sauvignon from En Cerise Vineyard. Now she has added a touch of Syrah to the equation. The wine was named “The Rat” and then Spanglish-cized: ‘La Rata’. The name ‘La Rata’ also connects with Elizabeth, as her zodiac sign which is the rat. This truly novel wine retails for under 100 dollars.
The 2019 La Rata (OB, 96) remains very true to the vintage. It is done in a more minerality-based style than the 2019, slightly more akin to the gorgeous 2017 bottling. This 2019 edition shows insanely good finesse and head-turning flavor range. Learn more at http://laratawines.com/wines.html Here is my review of the thrilling 2019 La Rata Red Wine by Elizabeth Bourcier of Cayuse Vineyards.
2019 La Rata Red Wine- Polished and lithe, the 2019 La Rata Red Wine is done in the slightly leaner, more mineral-driven style than the 2018 bottling. The aromatic range is downright thrilling with oyster sauce, white pepper dusted bacon, red cherry candy, green olives and shades of black truffle crudo. On the mouth this comes off as very weightless and soft, as the beautiful, pillowy texture captivates. Very elegant, nuanced and refined, the 2019 La Rata is already gorgeous Priorat-inspired wine to consume now and will cellar well for another eight to ten years. Drink 2022-2030- 96