Happy Saturday! I admit, I am finally catching up on some older wine club shipments, this time from 2024 (and no worries, I am sure I have some in the cellar lingering since 2016 or so!). The 2022 Mark Ryan Long Haul Columbia Valley Red Wine is a blend of Merlot (70%), Cabernet Sauvignon (21%), Cabernet Franc (8%) and Petit Verdot (1%) from the Quintessence, Red Willow and Ciel du Cheval Vineyards in the Columbia Valley AVA of Washington. Let's see how this wine is tasting a few years on!
The wine is a deep ruby color in the glass, with a bit of darkness at the center. The nose presents aromas of black cherry, leather and hints of green grass. The first sip is a surprising rush of tart cherry that eases into some flavors of vanilla bean, savory herbs and toasted oak midpalate. The tannins are somewhat subdued, but still provide enough backbone for a wonderfully smooth dry finish that lingers for a minute or more.
Overall, I would rate this wine a solid 9, as it's a classic expression of the great Bordeaux style blends coming from Washington. This wine would pair well with hard cheeses and charcuterie, beef bourguignon, or a classic grilled steak. Tonight, I am enjoying this wine with a pan seared Angus New York Strip over a bed of sautéed onions and mushrooms, steamed asparagus and a big baked potato. Cheers!
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