2015 Mark Ryan Dead Horse
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Tasting notes
(aged in 84% new French oak): Bright medium ruby. Aromas of cassis, blueberry, minerals and fruitcake are lifted by a violet topnote. Highly concentrated Cabernet with a plush texture and terrific depth to its dark berry, dark chocolate spice and licorice flavors; remains just this side of overripe. Finishes with big, fully supported tannins and slow-mounting length. (14.6% alcohol)
Critic scores
Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Jeb Dunnuck
More reviews and scores
Promising aromas of rich cassis, juniper-like spice and toasty new oak announce the 2015 Dead Horse Ciel du Cheval Vineyard, but on the palate, this medium to full-bodied wine falls somewhat short, with a rather dilute palate structured around chewy tannins. This blend of 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot is rather pedestrian for the price.
The 2015 Dead Horse is a Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated cuvée (there’s 8% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot) sourced all from Red Mountain Vineyards and spent 21 months in 84% new French oak. Sweet crème de cassis, black raspberry jam, crushed violets, and graphite characteristics flow to a full-bodied, voluptuous, sexy red that has awesome purity of fruit, fine, sweet tannin, and a great finish. It's gorgeous stuff. Another estate from Washington readers need to have on their short list is Mark McNeilly’s Mark Ryan Winery. The wines are made by super talented Mike Macmorran and are sourced from throughout Washington State. The wines are always impeccably made and shine for their purity and finesse just as much as richness and power.