Dead Horse (2019)

About this wine

The 2019 Dead Horse from Mark Ryan Winery is a compelling red blend that highlights the unique characteristics of Red Mountain. This wine opens with inviting aromas of ripe red raspberry, red licorice, chocolate, black cherry, and ample barrel spice. On the palate, it delivers plump yet graceful dark-fruit flavors that intensify over time, supported by a light squeeze of tannins. The blend is predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon, complemented by Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, contributing to its depth and complexity. Sourced from esteemed vineyards like Ciel du Cheval, this wine reflects the rich terroir of Red Mountain, known for producing powerful, tannic reds with balanced flavors and intense berry notes. With its structured profile and aging potential, the 2019 Dead Horse is a testament to the quality and character of Washington State wines.

About the grape

The 2019 Mark Ryan Winery Dead Horse is crafted from a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, all sourced from Washington's Red Mountain AVA. Cabernet Sauvignon, the dominant grape, thrives in Red Mountain's warm climate, producing small, intensely flavored berries due to the region's nutrient-poor, high-pH soils. Merlot adds depth and a velvety texture, while Cabernet Franc contributes aromatic complexity. Petit Verdot, though used in smaller quantities, enhances the wine's color and structure. The unique terroir of Red Mountain, characterized by its southwest-facing slopes and well-draining sandy loam soils, imparts distinctive qualities to these varietals, resulting in wines with notable intensity and aging potential.

Quick facts

• 🍇 The 2019 Dead Horse from Mark Ryan Winery is a Bordeaux-style blend, predominantly composed of 92% Cabernet Sauvignon, complemented by 6% Merlot, and small amounts of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot.
• 🏞️ This wine is crafted from grapes sourced from esteemed vineyards in Washington's Red Mountain AVA, including Quintessence, Ciel du Cheval, Obelisco, and Red Willow.
• 🏆 The 2019 vintage received high praise, earning a 93-point rating from Wine Enthusiast, which highlighted its aromas of ripe red raspberry, red licorice, chocolate, black cherry, and ample barrel spice.
• 🌞 Red Mountain AVA, where the grapes are grown, is renowned for its warm climate and unique terroir, contributing to the wine's intense flavors and structured tannins.
• 🍷 Mark Ryan Winery, established in 1999, has a reputation for producing high-quality wines that showcase the distinct characteristics of Washington State's vineyards.

Palate profile

Producer

Mark Ryan Winery was established in 1999 in Woodinville, Washington, by self-taught winemaker Mark Ryan McNeilly, who began by producing his first vintages in friends' garages. The winery has since grown to become the 14th largest in Washington State, earning acclaim from wine enthusiasts and critics alike. In 2012, a second tasting room was opened in Walla Walla, and in 2023, a new, larger tasting room was inaugurated in Woodinville's historic Redhook Brewery complex. The winery sources grapes from renowned vineyards across Washington, with a special focus on Red Mountain fruit, and has expanded its portfolio to include brands like Board Track Racer, Lu & Oly, and Megan Anne Cellars.