Betz Family Winery was founded in 1997 by Bob & Cathy Betz. Critical acclaim from local and national wine publications has put Betz Family Winery at the forefront of Washington wines alongside Cayuse, Leonetti and Quilceda Creek. The winery was sold to Steve and Bridget Griessel five years ago. Louis Skinner, a longtime assistant of Bob’s, is now the full time Winemaker.
2009 was the third vintage of La Côte Patriarche. The fruit is from Red Willow Vineyard in Yakima Valley. The Syrah at Red Willow was planted in 1986 making it the oldest Syrah vineyard in the state.
Violet in color. 14.7% ABV. Brooding nose of black fruits, coffee, game and flowers. Big, rich and seamless. Full bodies with acidity in spades. Black cherry, blueberry, espresso and white pepper on the palate. The finish is long and plush. This Syrah is the classic iron fist in a velvet glove. Tremendous wine. Drink over the next 6-8 years.
My rating: 93 points.
I understand the mailing list is full, although I suspect the wait isn’t too long. Fortunately, the wines from Betz are readily available all over Seattle almost year-round. The 2014 La Côte Patriarche was released to the mailing list several months ago and should be available at retail. I’m a buyer.
If you enjoyed this post please consider subscribing to Zinfandel Chronicles updates by email.