Mark Ryan, Long Haul Red Wine, Columbia Valley, Washington, USA 2021

Deep dark (blue and black) berries prevail on the nose, culminating in a waft of blueberry pie. A slight herbaceous menthol note adds a freshness to the nose of this Merlot-dominant blend. Dark fruits, Morello cherries, and blackberries continue on the palate, and fresh cracked black pepper and medium tannins appear. This muscular yet round wine is perfect to showcase with food, perhaps roasted duck breast in a cherry sauce.