2013 Betz ‘Perre de Famille’ Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley – buy online

WHO?

The Betz Family Winery was founded by Bob and Cathy Betz, with their first production dating back to 1997, limited to approximately 150 units. Bob worked as a viticulturist on the estate, having previously spent decades working at the prominent Washington winery, Chateau Ste. Michelle, and completed the Master of Wine program. However, in 2011, the Betz family sold the winery to a South African couple, Steve and Bridgit Griessel, while remaining in the management team. Bob remained as a viticulturist until 2016 and continues to be involved with the winery as an advisor.

WHERE?

Betz Family Winery is a small wine producer located in Washington, within the Columbia Valley wine-growing region. They source grapes through several partnerships across multiple subregions, dividing their portfolio between Bordeaux and Rhône-style red wines. The most prominent varieties include Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon, along with Petit Verdot, Merlot, and Grenache. Betz is best known for their red wines inspired by the French regions of Rhône and Bordeaux. Fruit is sourced from various vineyard partnerships across several Columbia Valley regions, including Yakima Valley and its subregion Snipes Mountain, Red Mountain, and Horse Heaven Hills.

WHY?

A high percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon (89%) gives the 2013 Père de Famille a lively, ruby-purple hue. The aromatic range is exciting, expressed as red currant, blackberry blossom, crushed herbs, and leather, with creamy hints of bay leaf, thyme, and anise. The palate is dense and penetrating, offering an elegant, lively structure, with a finish that reflects red fruit and spice. This vintage of Père de Famille is quite unique, with the warmth of the harvest nearly present, yet with aromatic and aging capabilities of the cool season.