2007, 2010, 2018 Mixed Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Tasting Lot

“Firm in texture, a bit chewy with tannins but glowing at the core with currant, dried blueberry and smoke aromas and flavors that linger nicely. (HS)” (03/2011)

“This Père de Famille is 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, with the rest split between Merlot and Petit Verdot. Sweet, pure fruit--black currants and black cherry and blackberry--is packed tight, concentrated and polished, but needing hours to breathe open. Dense, dusty, complex, complicated, this wine is sophisticated beyond description. *Top 100 Cellar Selections of 2010* (PG)” (08/2010)

“The 2007 Pere de Famille is made up of 84% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Merlot, and 7% Petit Verdot sourced predominantly from the Red Mountain AVA with small contributions from Horse Heaven Hills and Yakima Valley. Purple/black in color it reveals a brooding aromatic array of wood smoke, scorched earth, pencil lead, violets, black currant and blackberry. Full-bodied on the palate, it is a bit more dense, opulent, and succulent than the Clos de Betz, admirably combining elegance and power. The pure finish lasts for over 60-seconds. (JM)” (10/2009)

“Bright, deep ruby-red. Pungent cabernet aromas and flavors of red, black and blue fruits complicated by dried thyme and a floral topnote. The extremely intense yet silky palate offers a stunning wave of sweetness that will take several years to express itself fully. Most impressive today on the rising but wonderfully subtle finish, which is supported by serious tannic spine and goes on and on. These 2007 reds combine the structure of the 2005s with the added juiciness of the 2006s, says Betz, who appears to have made his finest set of wines to date. (ST)” (12/2009)

“This red offers grippy tannins surrounding a glowing core of cherry, blackberry, mint and spice flavors that linger effortlessly as the finish spreads and opens. Shows extraordinary balance and refinement, but needs time to soften. (HS)” (08/2010)

“Ripe and plush, with soft tannins around the generous currant and plum fruit, hinting at earthy spice as the finish lingers gently and expressively. This has depth and detail. (HS)” (12/2014)