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Grape Expectations
The Wine
A blend of 51% Mourvèdre, 34% Syrah and 15% Grenache, Sagemoor's 2022 vintage release of Codebreaker shows a Mourvedre dominance that is more common in Bandol than in Washington State. Fermented in a mix of steel and concrete and aged in large, neutral barrels. Here's a tasting note from a reviewer we respect:
"The 2022 Codebreaker lifts from the glass with a dusty array of dried roses, crushed strawberries and a touch of white pepper. This displays pure elegance on the palate, silken and serene in texture with a hint of sour citrus elevating ripe red berry fruits. It finishes with staining length and a liquid floral concentration, leaving notes of tart blackberry that linger. 92 points (reviewed at $45)" - Eric Guido, Vinous 10/24
Pairings: Grilled meats, roast chicken, charcuterie, and Mediterranean dishes. It also works well with washed‑rind cheeses, aged Gouda, and anything featuring herbs or roasted vegetables.
The Winery
Sagemoor Vineyards is one of Washington’s foundational growers, established in 1968 and long regarded as a source of top‑tier fruit for many of the state’s leading wineries.
Their estate encompasses several historic vineyards (Bacchus, Dionysus, Weinbau, and others) each contributing a distinct character to Columbia Valley’s grape-growing signature - warm days, cool nights, and varied soil expressions.
In recent years, Sagemoor expanded from an in-demand grower to producer as a way to showcase the personality of their vineyards. “Codebreaker” reflects that approach: a fresh, energetic GSM blend built from carefully selected blocks to showcase the potential of Washington’s Rhône varieties.
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