The 2006 Water Witch Red Blend was sourced from the Klipsun Vineyard in Red Mountain. It is composed of 58% Cabernet Sauvignon and 42% Merlot aged in 59% new oak. Dark ruby colored, it exhibits an aromatic array of toasty oak, spice box, mineral, cassis, and black currant. Velvety and sweetly fruited on the palate, this fleshy, opulent effort has outstanding depth and concentration. Its forward personality and ripe tannins will allow it to be enjoyed over the next decade although it may well last longer. Mark Ryan McNeilly began his winery in 2000 and currently produces 5000 cases of bold, in-your-face wine (I said the same thing in Issue 177, and it is just as true now). Tel. (206) 910-7967; www.markryanwinery.com

Stiff, tannic, earthy and wrapped up tight. It’s a big, bruiser of a wine, oaky, earthy and showing liquorous barrel flavors. Tasted three times over a four month period, it remains quite tight and hidden; the fruit is there but it’s very difficult to get this wine to open up. In time, therating could significantly improve.——P.G.(3/1/2009)—— 89