As our state’s Grenache vines age the fruit they bear gains more varietal purity. And with every vintage we’re raising the concentration of Grenache in Bésoleil in our attempt to create a classic southern Rhone blend. Grenache is fully 80% of this year’s wine, the balance composed of 15% Mourvedre and 5% Syrah.
A new source of Grenache, from the Olsen Estates in the YakimaValley brought greater vibrancy to the blend. It adds a depth of color and an even more intense strawberry, raspberry aroma. Notes of cherry, licorice, black pepper and spice jump from the glass, while a cherries ‘n cream mouthfeel really satisfies. And yes, there are notes of that elusive “garrigue”, the earthy, dried herb-lavender note typical of these southern Rhone blends.
80% Grenache, 15% Mourvedre, 5% Syrah
From winespectator.com:
Distinctive stuff, crisp in texture, with an open feel to the dark berry and tobacco flavors. The finish persists impressively. Drink now through 2013. 425 cases made. –HS
From erobertparker.com:
The 2007 Bosoleil is Betz Family’s take on Chateauneuf-du-Pape with a blend of 80% Grenache, 15% Mourvedre, and 5% Syrah sourced from three AVAs. Dark ruby-colored, it offers up a fragrant perfume of cigar box, lavender, sage, black cherry, and black raspberry. Layered on the palate, it has a silky texture, layered, savory red and black fruit, spice and earth notes, and a sweet, lengthy finish. It will benefit from 1-2 years of additional bottle age and offer prime drinking from 2011 to 2019.
Betz Family Winery remains one of Washington’s benchmarks for top quality wines from Rhone and Bordeaux grape varieties. Bob Betz’s 2007 collection shows him continuing at the top of his game (with plenty of help from his family).