RYAN PATRICK VINEYARDS ROCK ISLAND RED - 2005

Columbia Valley, Washington State red blend of 57% Merlot, 37% Cabernet and 6% Cabernet Franc. 14.3% alcohol.

TASTING NOTES:

Ruby red color with black cherry and vanilla on the nose. Creamy, charred oak with black fruit, mocha, black cherry soda and plum on the finish. Fairly smooth but there is a lot of backend heat still present.

SCORE & RECOMMENDATION:

88 PTS

My expectations were high. What was in the bottle did not meet them. Don't get me wrong, this is a good wine but I was a tad disappointed. Wine Spectator gave this one 90 points and it just doesn't get close to that score. Retails for around $15 a bottle making it a solid weeknight wine.