Long Haul has been one of Mark Ryan’s original releases, and is a big, powerful Bordeaux blend from exceptionally sourced fruit. (The blend is 72% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Petit Verdot and 1% Cabernet Franc). The 2019 sources its 72% Merlot from the Quintessence Vineyard in Red Mountain and the remainder from Red Willow Vineyard — another of Mark’s favorites — in the Yakima Valley AVA. I found this wine to have very deep black fruit and earthy clay and leather notes. Mark Ryan Winery recommends aging this through 2031 but, based on the depth of flavors and having tasted several older bottles, I am confident it could age much longer.
Mark Ryan Winery, Columbia Valley (Washington) 2019
By Vince Simmon