2018 Mark Ryan Monkey Wrench

Happy Saturday!  I have to admit I took it easy for much of the day, though I did run some errands and cut the grass, but to be fair it was really hot today!  In any case, it's time for a nice dinner and glass of wine, and tonight I've opened some wine that just arrived yesterday from Mark Ryan Winery.  The 2018 Mark Ryan Monkey Wrench marks the second vintage of this wine (see my review of the 2017 vintage here) and is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (68%), Merlot (18%), Cabernet Franc (13%) and Petit Verdot (1%) from five different vineyards in the Columbia Valley AVA of Washington.  So let's see how this latest vintage is tasting!

The wine has the look of a solid Cabernet-focused blend with a deep, inky center and bright ruby along the edges.  The nose is full of leather, surrounded by ripe black cherry, blueberry and baking spice.  The taste is a rush of rich fruit, black cherry, currant and plum that transitions easily to some white pepper spice midpalate.  The velvety tannins and balanced acidity provide for an ideal base for the lingering dry finish.

Overall, I would rate this wine a solid 8.5, as I think this vintage is just a bit better than the first, providing for the aging potential of a great Bordeaux-style blend, but at a very approachable price.  This wine would pair well with many weeknight dishes, from burgers and pizza to tacos and steak.  Tonight I am enjoying this wine with a rare grilled ribeye, with the last of the grilled garlic scapes, some blistered cherry tomatoes and charred broccoli rabe.  Cheers!