The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Lonely Heart is 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc that spent 21 months in 74% new French oak. Possessing rock star concentration and depth (which is not common in the vintage), with aromas and flavors of black currants, licorice, crushed rock and charcoal, this full-bodied effort has fantastic polish to its tannin, perfect balance and overall classic, age-worthy feel. It too will have two decades or more of longevity.
The team of Mark Ryan McNeilly and Mike MacMorran (of Manu Propria and Force Majeure) continue to step up their game and produce some of the most impressive wines in the state. The style here falls mostly in the classic, structured and age-worthy category, yet they don-t skimp on fruit or texture either. If you-re looking for classic Washington State Rhone and Bordeaux blends, don-t miss these guys.
Tel. (206) 910-7967; www.markryanwinery.com