As we continue along Washington Wine Month, we bring you one of the great producers of Washington Cabernet Sauvignon. Passing Time was founded by NFL Hall of Fame Quarterback, Dan Marino, and University of Washington quarterbacking legend Damon Huard, with backing of Doug Donnelly, Kevin Hughes and winemaker Chris Peterson. Damon and Dan had been talking about owning a winery together for many years as they grew to share their affinity for great Cabernet while Damon served as Dan's backup with the Miami Dolphins. Dan and Damon remained good friends and they finally got the nerve to start a winery in Woodinville and they have been crafting some seriously good Cabernet wines since their first release with the 2012 vintage (Interview with Damon Huard here:)
One of the great winemaking talents in the state, Chris Peterson has consistently been producing some seriously good red lineups in the state. Chris has a storied history, being the first graduate of the Walla Walla Community College’s Enology and Viticulture program and working at DeLille for eight years under legendary winemaker Chris Upchurch. Peterson was hired to be head winemaker at Passing Time, a winery founded by former NFL quarterbacks Damon Huard and Dan Marino. I recently had the chance to try one of their new release wines, sourced from the Horse Heaven Hills AVA. His 2015 Passing Time ‘Horse Heaven Hills’ Cabernet Sauvignon (WWB, 94) is a stunning effort that will cellar marvelously for decades to come. Learn more about this great boutique winery at http://www.passingtime.com Here is my review of the new 2015 Passing Time ‘Horse Heaven Hills’ Cabernet Sauvignon.
2015 Passing Time 'Horse Heaven Hills' Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2015 'Horse Heaven Hills' Cabernet Sauvignon is an outstanding wine from this hot vintage in Washington. This gorgeous wine starts off with intense aromatics of red bell pepper, black currant jelly and blackberry jam. The palate is both lithe and rich, showcasing black tea, sagebrush and mocha flavors that sit alongside really good tension. Delicious and forward, this is an outstanding wine by Passing Time and superstar winemaker Chris Peterson. Drink 2018-2030- 94