The Betz Family Winery is an embodiment of the American dream, fueled by a relentless pursuit of quality and a passion for winemaking. Founded by Bob and Cathy Betz in 1997, this family-owned winery has left an indelible mark on the Washington wine industry. Over the years, the Betz family’s unwavering commitment to producing exceptional wines has earned them numerous accolades and a revered status in the wine world. This essay will chronicle the remarkable journey of Bob and Cathy Betz, from their humble beginnings to their legacy as pioneers of fine winemaking in Washington State.
1974: A Year of Training and Inspiration:
In 1974, Bob and Cathy Betz embarked on a transformative journey, spending a year immersed in the vineyards of France, Italy, and Germany. This experience laid the foundation for their future endeavors in winemaking, exposing them to the artistry, traditions, and nuances of Old World wineries. Inspired by the rich viticultural heritage they encountered, Bob and Cathy returned to the United States with a burning desire to create exceptional wines of their own.
1975-1984: Building Expertise at Chateau St. Michelle:
Bob’s career in the wine industry began in 1975 when he joined Chateau St. Michelle, the preeminent wine company in Washington. Over the next 28 years, Bob honed his skills, working diligently to elevate the standards of winemaking in the region. His dedication and expertise led to his appointment as Vice President Winemaking Research in 1984, a testament to his contributions and influence in the industry.
1997-2008: Founding Betz Family Winery and Acclaim:
In 1997, Bob and Cathy took a leap of faith and crushed their first vintage of Betz Family wines, producing a mere 150 cases. Operating from a modest warehouse in Woodinville with the help of their volunteer friends, they poured their heart and soul into crafting wines of exceptional quality. The world took notice of their talent and dedication when Bob achieved the prestigious Master of Wine degree in 1998, joining an elite group of only 278 MW’s worldwide.
As the years went by, Betz Family Winery gained recognition and acclaim. Bob’s meticulous winemaking techniques, coupled with his deep understanding of Washington’s terroir, resulted in numerous accolades and awards. Sunset Magazine named him Winemaker of the Year in 2007, while the Seattle Times wine critic bestowed the honor of Washington’s Number One Wine of the Year on the Betz Family Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 in 2008.
2011-2016: Growth, Expansion, and Legacy:
In 2011, Bob and Cathy made the difficult decision to sell Betz Family Winery to Steve and Bridgit Griessel. However, Bob remained as the winery’s patriarch, mentor, and winemaker, ensuring the continuation of his legacy. The new ownership brought fresh energy and resources, allowing the winery to flourish further.
The subsequent years saw the winery reach new heights. The Betz Family’s dedication to excellence was reflected in the recognition their wines received. The 2009 Pere de Famille Cabernet Sauvignon was named Washington red wine of the year by Seattle Magazine in 2012. The 2010 Pere de Famille was ranked #6 in the world in Wine Enthusiast’s Top 100 Cellar Selections in 2014, and the 2012 Le Parrain Cabernet Sauvignon received an outstanding 99-point rating from Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate.
In 2015, Betz Family Winery expanded its vineyard holdings with the purchase of the Old Stone Vineyard in the Rocks of Milton Freewater and 40 acres on SeVein in Walla Walla. This strategic move allowed the winery to control the entire winemaking process, from vine to bottle, and further showcased their commitment to crafting wines that express the unique terroir of Washington State.
The story of the Betz Family Winery is one of passion, perseverance, and unwavering dedication to producing world-class wines. Bob and Cathy Betz’s journey, from their formative year of training in Europe to the establishment of their own winery and subsequent recognition, is a testament to the potential of American winemaking. Their commitment to quality and their willingness to push boundaries have left an enduring legacy in the Washington wine industry. As the Betz family enters a new chapter with Louis Skinner taking the reins as Winemaker and Bob assuming the role of Consulting Winemaker, their commitment to excellence remains unchanged, ensuring that the Betz Family Winery will continue to thrive and produce exceptional wines for years to come.
2018 The Untold Story Cabernet Sauvignon
Upon pouring, the 2019 Untold Story immediately captivates with its intense presence, displaying a deep, almost impenetrable purple core. This profound color foreshadows the wine’s aromatic potency, as a symphony of luscious black fruits, dark blackberry, plum, and cassis intermingle, complemented by hints of graphite and crushed herbs that gracefully emerge with each swirl. On the palate, this wine unfolds with layers of hedonistic opulence, exuding a velvety texture that indulges the senses. Yet, amidst this decadence, the wine maintains a harmonious equilibrium, owed to its vibrant acidity and the framework of finely woven tannins. The lingering finish is a delightful ensemble of fresh herbs, crushed berries, and tantalizing spice, leaving an enduring impression. In essence, this wine can be described in one word: delectable.
