Bottle Notes, Syrah

2011 Betz Family Syrah La Serenne – 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.

La Serenne is 100% Syrah from Boushey Vineyard.

Violet in color. 13.9% ABV. With considerable coaxing, black fruits, olives, game and flowers emerged on the nose. Big and full bodied with ample acidity. Dark and brooding. Blackberry, boysenberry, cassis and pepper on the palate. The finish is exceptionally long. Tremendous Syrah from a challenging vintage. Ready to go with a long decant and best over the next 2-4 years.

My rating: 91 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 2016 La Serenne will be released to the mailing list this Fall and should be available at retail. I’m a buyer.

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