"Passing Time is a serious contender in the fine wine scene of Washington State ... I’ll certainly keep my eye on how this project progresses." - Eric Guido, Vinous
Today's offer is a special one for our Florida family. While you may or may not have heard of Passing Time, a thrilling new player in boutique Washington Cabernet that's making huge waves in the critical press, you no doubt know the founder, legendary Miami Dolphins quarterback Dan Marino. Working with acclaimed winemaker Chris Peterson from several of the state's most prized vineyards (including Champoux, Klipsun, and Wallula), this project is quickly becoming a force to be reckoned with. Having recently tasted the entire range of 2022s ourselves, we can wholeheartedly stand behind the raft of monster scores and impressive accolades that follow these wines.
Starting off, the JD94 Red Blend is "an impressive wine at any price point but offers outstanding value" at our sub-$60 price. However, it's the appellation-specific bottlings that truly steal the show, each one a quintessential representation of its origins. The "impeccably structured and detailed" 2022 Red Mountain Cabernet is arguably the cream of the crop (but we're really just splitting hairs, as they're all so compelling). It positively "vibrates with energetic red and black fruit flavors, supported by fine-grained tannins and a lively line, finishing long and shimmery," according to Lisa Perrotti-Brown. If you after something that reminds you "a touch of Château Montrose in Saint-Estèphe," don't miss the Horse Heaven Hills Cab. This double 97-point Left Bank lookalike is perfectly poised to cruise for decades in the cellar. Finally, the double 97-point Walla Walla Cabernet draws from two iconic sites, Seven Hills and Pepper Bridge, to deliver "a rock-solid structure of firm, grainy tannins and bold freshness to match the vivacious, muscular black fruit, finishing long and fragrant."
It's rare to find a range in which each wine showcases such stunning class and sophistication in its own particular way, but Passing Time is well on the way to distinguishing itself as one of the most exciting new names in collectible Cabernet, and you'll be thrilled to have any and all of these standout performers in your cellar for decades to come, especially at our unbeatable market-best pricing.
Made from components from the single-appellation Cabernets, with small additions of Klipsun and Champoux Merlot and Champoux Cabernet Franc, the 2022 Red Wine is an impressive wine at any price point but offers outstanding value here. Aged in French oak, 57% new, it’s a rich, textured, full-bodied blend steeped in ripe plum and blackberry, baking spice, and dried herb, with a finishing note of cigar and cacao nib. The tannins are well-integrated and add plenty of finesse. Drink 2025-2035.
94 points, Virginie Boone, Jeb Dunnuck (Jul 2025)
Deep garnet-purple wine, the 2022 Red Wine charges out with gregarious notes of red currant jelly, juicy plums, and cassis, leading to hints of menthol, violets, and crushed rocks. The medium to full-bodied palate delivers vibrant red and black berry layers with fine-grained tannins and fantastic tension, finishing long and minerally. The blend is 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, and 5% Cabernet Franc. This is outstanding value at $65!
94 points, Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Independent (Mar 2025)
The 2022 Columbia Valley Red Wine comes to life in the glass with an inviting collage of black currants and pencil lead, gravel dust and rubbed sage. This is pure seduction on the palate: soothingly round and supple textures host crisp red and black fruits, complemented by hints of inner sage. This leaves a web of fine tannins and blackberry concentration amidst a remarkably fresh finish.
93 points, Eric Guido, Vinous (Dec 2024)
Handsomely structured and richly detailed, this red offers black currant, licorice and black olive flavors that gather tension toward medium-grained tannins. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Drink now through 2032. 545 cases made.
93 points, Tim Fish, Wine Spectator (Mar 2025)
Ripe blackberries open the aromatic show, with violets and seared steak serving as supporting actors. The densely textured wine features flavors of black cherries, anise and balsa wood that ache to be matched with something meaty from the grill. This Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated blend is a tannic beast that will require patience or decanting.
93 points, Michael Alberty, Wine Enthusiast (Sep 2025)
Aromatic and expressive, with crushed black raspberries, dried currants, walnuts and a hint of dried thyme. Medium- to full-bodied, tense and vibrant, with juicy acidity and a lightly chalky finish that lingers with spice and earthy nuances. Drink or hold.
93 points, James Suckling (Mar 2025)
The 2022 Red Wine Columbia Valley is a blend of 80% Cabernet, 15% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc, matured for 20 months in 60% new French oak. Initial aromas of vanilla and allspice give way to Luxardo cherries, blueberry, licorice and lilac. The full-bodied palate offers Goldilocks ripeness and silky tannins. It’s balanced by refreshing acidity and has a long, iron-laced finish. It will benefit from 3-5 years in the cellar. 545 cases produced.
92 points, Erin Brooks, Wine Advocate (May 2025)
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