A familiar skull is back at Curio, with a different blend behind the label. About a year ago, we featured Mark Ryan Winery’s NumbSkull Bordeaux-style red as a founder’s club pick. This October, the Founders Club pick explores another side of the Washington winery: NumbSkull GSM 2022, a full-bodied red with dark fruit, savory herbs, and plenty of spice. It’s a welcome opportunity to return to a producer we’ve enjoyed while getting to know something new.
GSM stands for Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre — the grapes in a blend associated with France’s southern Rhône. In this Columbia Valley interpretation, Syrah leads at 52%, joined by 25% Mourvèdre and 23% Grenache, with fruit from Quintessence Vineyard in Red Mountain and Olsen Vineyard in Yakima Valley. Look for black cherry and plum, followed by black pepper, dried herbs, and hints of vanilla and tea spice.
There’s artistry on the bottle, too: Seattle artist Cherylin Andre created the distinctive skull using scorch marks and candle soot. It’s a memorable introduction to a wine that gives us plenty to explore together. Try it alongside braised beef, grilled lamb, or roasted mushrooms with herbs, and take a moment to notice how the fruit and savory flavors come together.
That curiosity is part of what we love about Founders Club: each month brings another chance to discover what you enjoy in your glass. Available for Founder’s Club members to purchase for 50% off of the “dine here” price.
*If there is not sufficient wine in stock at the time of your order, it will be ordered and available for you as soon as possible.