Bottle Notes, Syrah

2014 Betz Family Syrah La Côte Patriarche – Bottle Notes

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.

The fruit for La Côte Patriarche 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.

Purple in color. 14% ABV. Brooding nose of black fruits, roasted herbs, coffee and charred meats. Full bodied with strong acidity. Dark and savory. Black cherry, blackberry, smoke and espresso on the palate. Tremendous length on the finish. Well made Syrah that is just entering what should be a long drinking window. Best over the next 4-6 years.

My rating: 92 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 2018 La Côte Patriarche was released earlier this month to members of the mailing list.

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