From: Columbia Valley, Washington, USA
Varietal: Sauvignon Blanc
Tasting Notes: Producer Tasting Note: “On the nose, a delicate scent of jasmine intertwines with a crisp aroma of green apple. On the palate, lemon peel offers a bright and zesty burst of citrus complemented by wet stone, and the subtle and refreshing taste of lemongrass, infusing the wine with a hint of herbal freshness. With its fuller body and lengthy finish, this wine is perfect for those seeking a Sauvignon Blanc with depth and balance.”
Pairing: The wine’s fuller body and lengthy finish complement light yet flavorful fare, such as grilled lemon-herb chicken or seared scallops with a citrus beurre blanc sauce. A vibrant arugula and goat cheese salad pairs with fresh acidity and citrus, and the wet stone undertones pair beautifully with fresh oysters or a delicate ceviche. For a vegetarian option, consider pairing this Sauvignon Blanc with a spring vegetable risotto, where the wine’s complexity and balance can shine alongside the dish’s creamy texture and fresh, green flavors.
Other ideas we think would be fantastic with this sauvignon blanc are things Lemon and Herb Grilled Shrimp, Thai Green Curry with Tofu, Grilled Fish Tacos with Mango Salsa or a delicious summer Pesto Pasta.
Pesto Pasta With Shrimp and Salmon
Recipe from Meliano Plasencia
Adapted by Eric Kim
About. Mark McNeilly, the founder and driving force behind Mark Ryan Winery, grew up in the Pacific Northwest, which instilled in him an early appreciation for the region’s natural beauty and agricultural potential. Before venturing into winemaking, McNeilly worked in various roles, including the technology sector. His career path wasn’t initially toward winemaking, but his passion for wine eventually steered him in that direction. McNeilly’s interest in wine grew during his twenties, inspired by tastings and visits to wineries. His fascination with the complexities and nuances of wine prompted him to learn more about the craft. Lacking formal training in enology, he pursued winemaking through a hands-on approach, learning through trial and error, extensive reading, and invaluable mentorship from established winemakers in the region.
1999, McNeilly produced his first wines, operating out of a garage. The initial batches were small but laid the foundation for Mark Ryan Winery. Starting with limited resources, McNeilly faced numerous challenges in the early years, juggling multiple roles from winemaker to marketer to ensure the winery’s survival and growth. Despite the hurdles, his dedication to quality quickly paid off. His wines garnered positive reviews and began to attract a loyal following. The unique character of the wines, combined with McNeilly’s storytelling and branding, helped establish a strong identity for the winery.
From the beginning, McNeilly emphasized producing wines of exceptional quality. This philosophy meant focusing on meticulous vineyard management and innovative winemaking techniques. He aimed to create wines that reflected the distinct terroir of Washington State by sourcing grapes from premier vineyards in regions like Columbia Valley and Red Mountain. Unafraid to experiment, McNeilly constantly sought new ways to improve his wines, exploring different varietals, blending techniques, and aging methods to achieve the desired profiles.
Over the years, Mark Ryan Winery expanded its production and portfolio, growing from a small garage operation to a significant player in the Washington wine scene. The winery has received numerous awards and high ratings from wine critics, solidifying its reputation for excellence. As a respected figure in the industry, McNeilly has also taken on a mentorship role, helping to nurture new talent and contribute to the growth of Washington’s wine community.
The Mark Ryan family of wines now includes wines under different labels other than the Mark Ryan Winery label, including Board Track Racer, 216 Miles To Go, Megan Anne, Manu Propia, Numbskull, Underground Wine Project, and Lu & Oly, which this wine comes from.
Today, Mark McNeilly continues to lead the winery, ensuring that the original vision and commitment to quality remain intact. The winery’s tasting room in Woodinville has become a popular destination for wine enthusiasts, offering a firsthand experience of McNeilly’s craftsmanship and the winery’s hospitality.
Wine Notes: “Mark’s two daughters, Lucia and Olivia, are the inspiration behind our Lu & Oly lineup, which began with the 2013 vintage. The label artwork was created by the very talented Kyler Martz, a Northwest illustrator and tattoo artist. The Lu & Oly lineup contains the Flowerhead label with a Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, and Rosé as well as the We Sat by the Ocean White blend and Untethered Bubbles.”
