For years I have admired the wines by Passing Time — founded by NFL legends Dan Marino and Damon Huard. Longstanding winemaker Chris Peterson is one of the greats in the Northwest, as he was the first graduate of the Walla Walla Community College’s Enology and Viticulture program and worked DeLille for eight years under legendary winemaker Chris Upchurch. His wines are big, bold and beautifully structured, with a beginning, middle and an end.
The new wines were incredible coming from the 2023 vintage. I tasted all from barrel and was amazed with the consistency and sense of place each wine possesses. I am enamored by the 2023 Passing Time ‘Columbia Valley’ Chardonnay (OB, 95) which has great poise and richness. This is going to be enamored by any Chardonnay lover. Learn more about this fantastic boutique winery at http://www.passingtime.com Here is my reviews of the new Passing Time wines.
2023 Passing Time ‘Columbia Valley’ Chardonnay- The 2023 ‘Columbia Valley’ comes from some outstanding locations in Washington including the Connor Lee and Boushey Vineyards. Stored in 75% French oak this delivers a silky mouthfeel upon entry. Banana and roasted pineapple connect well with mango, poached pear and vanilla cream on the palate. This has a marvelous push-pull in terms of weight, texture and underlying freshness. Don’t serve too cold! Drink 2025-2033- 95
2023 Passing Time ‘Horse Heaven Hills’ Cabernet Sauvignon Barrel Sample- 96-99
2023 Passing Time ‘Red Mountain’ Cabernet Sauvignon Barrel Sample- 97-99
2023 Passing Time ‘Walla Walla' Cabernet Sauvignon Barrel Sample- 96-99