I am always shocked how few wine critics write about Cayuse Grenache. Name a wine on the West Coast that is more unique than Cayuse ‘God Only Knows’ Grenache? I’d be very surprised if you could find a wine this novel. Name a wine that has a Chateau Rayas level of purity of fruits? Bet you can’t find anything near this in North America. Telegraphe, Clos de Cailloux, Clos de Papes, Pegau, Janasse all have that gorgeous purity. They say that there is only one Rayas. There is also only one ‘God Only Knows.’
What comes close to‘God Only Knows’ in terms of novelty, flavor/aromatic range, texture, and tension? There is not another wine in North America that delivers this. Today I sit with a library wine that I purchased from WineBid.com. The 2012 ‘God Only Knows’ (OB, 98) is absolutely starting to fade in terms of tension. But in terms of flavor density and flavor complexity it is a complete knockout of a wine. This is really starting to pick up its sous bois character on the palate which is exciting. Don’t get me wrong, I love these wines young and recommend that you open them within ten years of their release. But this 2012 is really beautiful right at its peak.
These wines can be very difficult to find, and are only sold online on auction or through the Cayuse mailing list. Learn more about these wines at https://cayusevineyards.com/static/ Here is my review of the scintillating 2012 Cause Vineyards ‘God Only Knows’ Red Wine.
2012 Cause Vineyards ‘God Only Knows’ Red Wine ($100.00)- This is now my second opportunity in the past year to taste the incredible 2012 ‘God Only Knows’ Red Wine. This is a wine that is really peaking right now so do not be afraid to grab one from the cellar if you are one of the lucky few. Once on the nose this offers beautiful red rose petal notes alongside shades of pink peppercorn, Hoisin sauce, Chinese five spice and shades of Nori, with smoked brisket accents. The aromatic density and complexity is quite frankly second to none for Grenache. The palate is displaying a dizzying flavor range as well. Sous bois, primarily black truffle shavings alongside bright acidity, blood orange zest, and very pretty guava and red cherry fruits all seamlessly sing in unison on the palate. Viscous, round and generous on the tongue, this stunning wine is really singing now and should be enjoyed over the next several years. Drink 2023-2028- 98