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May 2008 Washington Club
2005 Betz Père de Famille Cabernet Sauvignon
One of the privileges of membership in this club is that you get to
keep adding to your vertical of one of Washington's best Cabernets, even in a year when
only about 300 cases were produced. Given that 2005 has emerged as one of the best
vintages in Washington history, it's not surprising that the Betz Pèère de Famille
is possibly the best, certainly the longest aging of any wine that Bob Betz has ever
made. It has the highest percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon (84%) ever used in this
blend, with 8% Merlot, 6% Petit Verdot, and 2% Malbec. It's mostly Red Mountain
fruit (63%) with 21% coming from the Horse Heaven Hills and 16% from the classic Red
Willow vineyard in the Yakima Valley. A big wine, but complex and interesting, a
worthy addition to your cellar for the next 10-15 years, if you can wait that long.
It was $57.25 and is utterly sold out.
2003 Colvin Vineyards Allégresse
Before we say good-bye to our friend Mark Colvin, whose winery is
closing its doors soon, we have one more of his wines for this club. In addition to
his more limited 2003 L’Etoile d’Hiver ("Star of Winter"), Mark also makes
another elegant blend of Bordeaux grapes (with 2% Carmenère added) called
Allégresse. The 2003 version has more Merlot in the blend than previous years,
and it features a smoky nose and ripe, spicy fruit flavors. While decanting is
recommended, it is drinking well now, or could hold for a year or two. As part of
the dissolution of Mark's current inventory, the price was radically reduced for this
wine, which had cost around $35 in previous vintages. We are very pleased to be
able to offer it for only $25, which made it a good fit with the Betz this month.
Best of all, we still have a very good supply and we can get more. And don't forget
to make a toast to Colvin Vineyards and Mark Colvin in appreciation of his contributions
to the Washington wine industry!
The 2005 Quilceda Creek Cabernet will arrive at the shop on May 2. As always,
club members have first priority and may purchase up to 6 bottles at $140 per bottle
(plus tax). Please let us know as soon as possible if you are interested.
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