2021 Cayuse The Lovers
Estimated value
Buying options
Tasting notes
Darkly floral, the 2021 The Lovers opens with a savory bouquet of sage, crushed ashen stones, pipe tobacco and blackcurrant. Cool-toned and classic, this presents decadently ripe red and black fruit with hints of citrus over a stream of vibrant acidity. Enveloping and serene, it takes a turn toward structure through the finish, leaving silky tannins and a vivid note of black licorice.
Critic scores
Jeb Dunnuck
Eric Guido, Vinous
More reviews and scores
A Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated blend that includes 10% Syrah, the 2021 The Lovers is deep purple-hued with a more reserved, inward style that's going to reward bottle age. Ripe red and black fruits, iron, smoked tobacco, and freshly sharpened pencil notes give way to a medium to full-bodied, pure, elegant red with silky tannins, plenty of accessibility and charm, and outstanding length. Drink bottles any time over the coming 15+ years.
Mostly Cabernet Sauvignon with 10% Syrah, the 2021 The Lovers displays an almost opaque core and deep magenta rim. The nose opens with notes of resinous purple flowers, baked plums and black cherry skin essence with a subtle undertone of brown baking spices with cinnamon and a hint of nutmeg. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is ripe, plush and initially juicy before turning a touch tannic with notes of graphite and turned earth wading across the mid-palate. Slowly, the tannic grip releases, revealing soft, savory notes of dried herbs with a delicate backbone of sweet spices. Give it a few more years in the bottle to mellow, allowing it to find its stride, and enjoy it with larger cuts of steak. The wine aged 21 months in approximately one-third new French oak. Just under 2,800 bottles were produced.