Wine Advocate – 98 Points
Of these three offerings from Horsepower, the 2015 Syrah The Tribe Vineyard will require the most time, as it’s the most tight-knit at this early stage, slowly unwinding in the glass with savory aromas of raw cocoa, tapenade, nori and ripe blackberries. On the palate, it’s full-bodied, deep and concentrated, with a rich chassis of satiny structuring tannins and a layered, umami-laden core of fruit. At 13.6% alcohol, it’s also beautifully balanced. Jun/2018 — William Kelley | robertparker.com
James Suckling – 98 Points
This shows beautifully executed freshness and complexity with charcuterie, graphite, abundant spice and a dusting of pepper, bright berry fruits and an enchanting floral edge. The palate has light, playful tannins and is wildly charming and lacy; it offers blackberries and spiced red cherries wrapped neatly. Syrah at its ethereal best. Drink or hold. May/2018 —James Suckling | jamessuckling.com
Wine Enthusiast – 96 Points
Wine Enthusiast – 96 Points
The aromas are exultant in notes of fire pit, ham hock, green olive, mineral, peat, soot, sea breeze, steak tartare, coffee bean and potpourri. The palate is full of intensely rich yet still vibrant, savory flavors and an abundant peppery tone. The olive and fire-pit finish easily lingers for a minute, if not beyond. Dec/2018 —Sean P. Sullivan | wineenthusiast.com
Wine Spectator – 95 Points
Distinctive and expressive, with a rich and complex core wrapped in bold bacon fat, blueberry, violet and crushed stone accents that take on momentum toward refined tannins. Drink now through 2026. 519 cases made. Aug/2018 —TF | winespectator.com
Description
The 2015 Horsepower Vineyards “The Tribe” Syrah stands as a magnum opus within the esteemed winemaking portfolio of Christophe Baron. This exquisite vintage captures the very essence of Walla Walla’s terroir, a testament to the meticulous vineyard practices and visionary winemaking that define Horsepower Vineyards.
In the glass, ‘The Tribe’ reveals an alluring deep garnet hue, setting the stage for the sensory journey that awaits. Aromas of dark berries, black cherries, and subtle floral notes intertwine, creating a complex bouquet that hints at the wine’s depth and sophistication.
On the palate, the 2015 vintage showcases the hallmark characteristics of Horsepower’s Syrah. Rich and full-bodied, the wine unfurls layers of flavor, with blackberry, plum, and hints of savory spices dancing harmoniously. The tannins, while structured, are finely integrated, contributing to a velvety texture that lingers on the palate.
What distinguishes ‘The Tribe’ is its remarkable balance—a harmonious interplay of fruit, acidity, and tannins. This Syrah embodies the terroir of Walla Walla, with the grapes sourced from distinct vineyard sites, including Upland, Sur Echalas, and High Contrast. The result is a wine that encapsulates the diverse soils and microclimates of the region.
The 2015 vintage, now gracefully aged, has evolved into a masterpiece. Its complexity has deepened, revealing nuances that speak to the wine’s maturation and the potential for age-worthiness that is characteristic of Horsepower Vineyards’ offerings.
For enthusiasts and collectors, ‘The Tribe’ is a collector’s gem—an opportunity to experience the pinnacle of Washington State Syrah. Its limited production and critical acclaim add to its allure, making it a sought-after bottle among connoisseurs.
In every sip of the 2015 Horsepower Vineyards “The Tribe,” one can discern the dedication, passion, and artistry that define Christophe Baron’s winemaking philosophy. It is a celebration of Walla Walla’s terroir, a nod to the vines that struggle in the rocky soils, and an invitation to partake in a truly exceptional oenophilic experience.
Horsepower Vineyards and Cayuse have become synonymous with uncompromising quality and a commitment to expressing the unique terroir of Walla Walla Valley, Washington. The story of these renowned wineries is intertwined with the vision and passion of a singular individual, Christophe Baron.
Christophe Baron, a vigneron from the Champagne region in France, arrived in the Walla Walla Valley in the late 1990s, seeking a place where he could pursue his winemaking dreams. Drawn by the rugged landscape and the promise of challenging conditions, Baron identified the potential of the region to produce wines of exceptional character. In 1996, he established Cayuse Vineyards, named after the Cayuse tribe of Native Americans who once inhabited the area.
Cayuse quickly gained acclaim for its distinctive, terroir-driven wines, with a focus on Rhône varietals such as Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvèdre. Christophe Baron’s commitment to biodynamic farming practices and minimal intervention in the winemaking process set Cayuse apart, fostering a reputation for producing wines that authentically reflect the land.
In 2005, Baron expanded his winemaking endeavors with the creation of Horsepower Vineyards. The birth of Horsepower marked a shift in focus to a specific grape variety — Syrah — and a dedication to showcasing the influence of different vineyard sites on this noble grape. Each vineyard under the Horsepower label is a distinct “séance,” or session, with the land, emphasizing the impact of terroir on the final wine.
‘The Tribe,’ a flagship Syrah from Horsepower Vineyards, epitomizes this philosophy. The vineyards, like Upland, Sur Echalas, and High Contrast, each contribute a unique character to the blend, reflecting the diverse soils and microclimates of Walla Walla Valley. The meticulous care of the vines, often planted on steep, rocky slopes, yields low quantities of intensely flavored grapes.
The Horsepower label is not only a nod to the horsepower needed to plow the vineyards’ challenging soils but also a testament to the energy, dedication, and spirit invested in every bottle. Christophe Baron’s hands-on approach and deep connection to the land have positioned Horsepower Vineyards as a symbol of excellence in Washington State winemaking.
Both Cayuse Vineyards and Horsepower Vineyards have achieved cult status among wine enthusiasts and collectors worldwide. The limited production, combined with consistently high ratings from critics, has elevated these wines to iconic status. The journey of Christophe Baron, from his roots in France to the creation of two distinctive and revered wineries in Walla Walla, showcases a winemaking philosophy that revolves around respect for the land, authenticity, and a relentless pursuit of quality.
Wine Advocate (WA)
Influential Wine Criticism for Global Wine Lovers
Founded in 1978 by Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate revolutionized the wine industry with its adoption of the 100-point scoring system. It quickly became the most influential source of wine ratings globally, especially for Bordeaux, Rhône, and California wines. Parker’s precise palate and fearless opinions gained him a loyal readership. Today, under the editorial leadership of Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW and a team of regional specialists like Joe Czerwinski and William Kelley, the publication continues to deliver deeply researched, blind-tasted reviews with global reach. It remains subscription-based and independent, with over 30,000 wines reviewed each year.
Wine Spectator (WS)
America’s Leading Wine Magazine and Rating Publication
Wine Spectator has been a staple of the wine world since its founding in 1976 by Bob Morrisey. Purchased shortly after by Marvin R. Shanken, the publication grew into the most widely read wine magazine in the U.S. It is known for its blind tastings, detailed vintage charts, consumer-focused reviews, and accessible scoring system. Its famous “Top 100 Wines” list each year influences buying trends across the industry. With a team of dedicated critics covering nearly every wine-producing region on Earth, Wine Spectator remains a trusted name for both collectors and casual drinkers alike, reaching millions in both print and digital formats.
James Suckling (JS)
Global Critic Known for Rapid Reviews and Bold Ratings
James Suckling spent nearly three decades at Wine Spectator, serving as Senior Editor and European Bureau Chief, before launching his own platform in 2010. Renowned for his fast-paced review style, Suckling and his team rate more than 25,000 wines annually from all over the world — with a strong focus on Italy, Bordeaux, Napa Valley, and Chile. His reviews are direct and generous, often accompanied by tasting videos and interviews with winemakers. Suckling also hosts large-scale tasting events around the globe and maintains strong influence on luxury wine buying in Asia, particularly Hong Kong and China.
Wine Enthusiast (WE)
Wine Ratings, Lifestyle, and Buying Guide
Since 1979, Wine Enthusiast has published wine reviews, buying guides, and lifestyle content for both entry-level drinkers and experienced collectors. The magazine evaluates thousands of wines annually using a 100-point scale and offers detailed, easy-to-understand tasting notes. Its team includes regional editors specializing in North America, Europe, and the Southern Hemisphere. Wine Enthusiast also provides wine accessories and hosts wine events. It’s known for its strong online presence and educational tone, making it one of the most accessible and widely read wine publications in the United States.
The Wine Independent (TWI)
Subscription-Based, Critically-Researched Wine Analysis
Founded in 2021 by former Wine Advocate editor-in-chief Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW and wine photographer Johan Berglund, The Wine Independent emphasizes transparency, independence, and long-form, in-depth critical reviews. It operates on a subscription-only model and maintains no advertising relationships, ensuring its opinions are entirely editorial and not influenced by wineries or sponsors. Their reviews, primarily focused on Bordeaux, Napa Valley, and Champagne, feature detailed tasting notes and region-specific insights, and the site aims to be a trusted source for high-end collectors and trade professionals.
Burghound (BH)
Burgundy Expertise and Global Pinot Noir Specialist
Allen Meadows launched Burghound.com in 2001 after a successful career in finance and years of deep study into the wines of Burgundy. His quarterly reports are considered the gold standard for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, especially from France and Oregon. Burghound is highly regarded for its vintage retrospectives, producer profiles, and strict scoring discipline. Meadows is known for revisiting wines across vintages to track aging and performance, providing valuable data for serious collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Connoisseur’s Guide to California Wine (CGCW)
Decades of California-Centric Ratings and Commentary
Founded in 1974 by Charles Olken, the Connoisseur’s Guide to California Wine was one of the first American wine publications dedicated exclusively to California wines. It employs a star-based rating system rather than numerical scores, offering short, consumer-friendly reviews with strong editorial consistency. It reviews wines monthly and is particularly noted for its fair treatment of smaller wineries, as well as for educational columns that provide insight into varietals, regions, and vintage perspectives.
Wine & Spirits (W&S)
Restaurant Trends, Trade Tastings, and Thoughtful Reviews
Wine & Spirits Magazine has been publishing since 1982 and is known for its blind tasting panels, sustainable producer features, and restaurant-focused wine trends. The magazine’s annual Restaurant Poll surveys top U.S. restaurants for their bestselling wines, offering unique insight into trade buying patterns. It covers both domestic and international regions with tasting panels led by respected critics, and places a strong emphasis on balanced, food-friendly wines. The publication is widely read by industry professionals, sommeliers, and wine educators.
The Tasting Panel (TP)
Trade-Oriented Publication Blending Ratings with Wine Business Insight
The Tasting Panel is a leading beverage trade magazine that reviews wine, spirits, and beer with an eye toward the business side of the industry. Edited by Meridith May, the magazine blends product ratings with distributor insights, marketing trends, and interviews with industry leaders. Its wine scores often appear in distributor portfolios and retail shelf talkers. Known for a broad palate and market-savvy commentary, The Tasting Panel holds a unique position between reviewer and trade magazine.
Vinous (VN)
Modern Multimedia Wine Criticism with a Global Reach
Vinous was launched in 2013 by Antonio Galloni, a former lead critic at The Wine Advocate. The platform combines written reviews, video content, interactive maps, and tasting notes across a global array of regions, from Barolo to California. Vinous has absorbed other major outlets like Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar, expanding its reach and credibility. With contributors like Eric Guido, Josh Raynolds, and Neal Martin, Vinous is widely respected by collectors and industry professionals.
Stephen Tanzer (ST)
Veteran Critic Known for Precise, Classic Palate
Stephen Tanzer was the publisher of the International Wine Cellar for nearly 25 years before merging with Vinous in 2014. Known for his conservative scoring style and deep knowledge of Bordeaux, Burgundy, and U.S. wines, Tanzer remains a respected contributor at Vinous. His legacy includes pioneering English-language coverage of less-celebrated wine regions and maintaining credibility with both trade professionals and collectors. Tanzer’s tasting notes are concise, technical, and valued for their consistency.
Jancis Robinson (JR)
Master of Wine and One of the Most Respected Critics Worldwide
Jancis Robinson MW is a globally recognized wine critic, journalist, and author based in the UK. She was the first person outside the wine trade to earn the Master of Wine title in 1984. Her Oxford Companion to Wine and World Atlas of Wine (co-authored with Hugh Johnson) are essential references in the industry. Robinson serves as wine advisor to the British royal cellar and is known for her scholarly yet accessible reviews and educational content at JancisRobinson.com.
Jeb Dunnuck (JD)
Former Aerospace Engineer Turned Rhône and U.S. Wine Authority
Jeb Dunnuck began his wine career writing a blog focused on the wines of the Rhône Valley and Southern France. He later joined The Wine Advocate before founding JebDunnuck.com in 2017. His publication focuses heavily on U.S. regions such as California and Washington, as well as France’s Rhône and Bordeaux. Known for a generous palate and bold tasting language, Dunnuck provides hundreds of detailed reviews per release cycle, frequently visiting producers and publishing regional deep-dives.
Decanter Magazine (D)
British Wine Authority Blending Criticism and Culture
Founded in 1975, Decanter is the UK’s oldest consumer wine publication. It has built a global reputation for thoughtful commentary, extensive blind tastings, and the annual Decanter World Wine Awards, one of the largest and most respected wine competitions. With contributors including Steven Spurrier, Jane Anson, and Andrew Jefford, Decanter provides wine education, interviews, travel features, and expert reviews. Its editorial voice reflects a balance of Old World tradition and New World curiosity.
Jane Anson (JA)
Bordeaux Specialist and Authoritative Wine Writer
Jane Anson spent nearly 20 years writing for Decanter Magazine before launching her own subscription-based platform, Inside Bordeaux. She is one of the most respected contemporary voices on Bordeaux, having authored “Inside Bordeaux” — a highly praised and scholarly reference work. Anson is noted for her deep engagement with vineyard practices, producer interviews, and regional changes. She holds a diploma from the Bordeaux Wine School and continues to publish detailed tasting reports and essays for…
Tasting Book ~ (TB)
Global Collector-Sourced Ratings and Reviews
The Tasting Book is an international digital platform that compiles wine reviews from professional critics, sommeliers, collectors, and enthusiasts around the world. Launched in Finland, it has grown to feature tens of thousands of wines with reviews from multiple perspectives. Each entry aggregates community feedback alongside professional commentary. Tasting Book is especially valued for its crowd-sourced balance and the ability to compare opinions across tasters. It is widely used by wine professionals, collectors, and auction houses.
