Had a visit over at Betz Winery yesterday and was met by Tyson (assistant wine maker) with a guest appearance by Cathy Betz. They were kind enough to pour some of the yet to be released 2009 Syrah and Grenache.
2009 Besoleil
Grapes sourced from Upland Vineyard, Ciel du Cheval and Olsen Estates Vineyard. 67% Grenache, 14% Syrah, 10% Mouvedre, 9 % Cinsault. Alcohol was 14.8% and wne was aged in 1 year old French Oak. Purple in color and more translucent then the usual opaque characteristic. Extremely Rhone-like even at this early stage with strong hints of red fruit (especially strawberry), some forest floor (mushroom) and just a tad of sulphur. More fruit-driven then “jammy” (chewy). Tannins even at this early state are softer and sweeter then one would expect with a 30 second finish.
2009 La Serenne
The 2009 La Serenne is 100% Syrah that was sourced from the Dick Boushey vineyard. The La Serrene was aged in 50% new and 50% 1 year old french oak and has a 14.9% alcohol level. The appearance is dark-purple (almost black). The nose reveals sweet cherry, smoked meat, bacon fat, iron/blood but also has a floral note of violets. At this point there is a little heat with moderate tannins with a 20+ second finish.
Tyson’s impressions of the 2009 and 2010 vintages were as follows:
The 2009 vintage was hot and he feels that the wines may prove to be longer lasting then 2010’s. He did go on to state that as 2010 was a cooler vintage, winemakers will have to be careful with the acid levels.
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