Bottle Notes, Syrah

2013 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.

Blood red in color. 14.3% ABV. Savory nose of black fruits, olive brine, creosote and Spring flowers. Full bodied with exquisite acidity. Dark and brooding but somewhat approachable. Blackberry, coffee, charred meats and minerals on the palate. Exceptional length on the finish. I tend to think La Serenne comes around sooner than the other Betz Syrahs and that seems to be the case in the ’13 vintage. Really well made. Best over the next 3-5 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 2018 La Serenne will be released this coming Fall.

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