My first taste of this since 2013, and my first Betz TN in five years. 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Merlot and 17% Cabernet Franc, from the Columbia Valley.
It’s still a bit of a dense beast, but a nice drink. Cassis, plum and some of the strongest licorice notes I’ve encountered in any wine. While it insulted Marybeth’s sense of subtlety, it’s a great wine in the generous, voluptuous genus. Even she ended up drinking more than a glass. We paired it with Jewish corned beef (aka brisket).
I had one about 6 weeks ago and was a little sad to see that it had shed so much weight.
2005 Betz Family Le Parrain- USA, Washington, Columbia Valley (2/3/2022)
Bright, raspberry, lifted aromatics move to a surprisingly light palate with loads of very bright cherry, hints of tobacco, and light minerality on a suave and fully resolved finish. This wine was such a massive blockbuster its youth, that I am quite surprised at how much weight it has shed and how resolved it is at age 17. I would now describe it as “pretty” but maybe a little disappointing given the intensity and concentration of its youth. (91 pts.)
Eric,
I had read your note. That’s why I opened mine and served it to Marybeth. She would have loved your bottle, but ours was a beast. Also, not a hint of tertiary aromas. My cellar’s a bit cold, so maybe that has something to do with it.
Cheers,
Warren
Always like their Syrah’s more than the Bordeaux blends. However my favorite 2002 Betz Family Cabernet Sauvignon Père de Famille. Had it in 2012 and that was amazing.
My cellar at home is quite cold, but this bottle made the trip to Switzerland (warmer passive cellar for 2.5 years) and then back. So maybe that sped things up? I haven’t seen any other advanced bottles, and cork was spotless. C’est la vie.
