Betz Besoleil 2011 (750ML)

92+ VM / 91 WA / 91 WE

Moderately saturated bright medium red. Sexy aromas of red berries, cherry, lavender and rose petal, plus a faint rocky quality. Suave and weightless in the mouth, with bright red fruit and floral flavors complicated by dried thyme, lavender and pepper nuances. Lovely juicy wine with excellent intensity and saline grip. This is the first vintage of this bottling to include counoise, which Bob Betz says has contributed spiciness. - Stephen Tanzer, Vinous Media

I was able to taste the 2011s from bottle at my office in Colorado. The 2011 Grenache Besoleil is made from 54% Grenache, 15% Cinsault, 12% Counoise, 12% Mourvedre and the balance Syrah, with most coming from Yakima Valley, and 27% from Red Mountain and 12% from Snipes Mountain. Beautifully perfumed, with sweet red and black berry fruit, herbs de Provence, licorice, hints of pepper and gaminess, it flows onto the palate with a medium-bodied, juicy, lively profile that has mouthwatering acidity, sweet fruit and a solid finish. Up-front, delicious and drinking beautifully already, it will evolve gracefully through 2019.  - Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Advocate

This new vintage of the Southern Rhône-style blend dubbed “Bésoleil”, is half Grenache, 18% Cinsault, with Counoise, Mourvèdre and Syrah making up the rest. Immaculate, spicy and bursting with delicious raspberry flavors, its purity is impressive, and the peppery details are wondrously curious, inviting prolonged consideration between sips. An excellent blending exercise melds all five grapes in perfect proportion. - Wine Enthusiast