2011 is the first vintage we were able to introduce another southern Rhone red variety into our Bésoleil blend. The little known Counoise had recently been planted in Washington and we had experimented with it before, but it 2011 it came into its own. It’s fragrant, generous and earthy, contributing nuance to both aroma and flavor, and taking us closer to our Chateauneuf du Pape model. It’s similarly colored to Grenache, which it slightly replaces in the final blend, but has more earth, spice and structure, helping Bésoleil take on more weight and authority.

The wine reflects that influence while retaining the essence of its previous vintages. Vibrant ruby with hints of blue color, opens to an intense southern Rhone character. Black raspberry, smoke, roasted dried herbs, black pepper, and floral notes of lavender and rose petal all play their aromatic role. The Counoise adds a note of garrigue, that exotic aroma of the dried, shrubby plants of coastal Mediterranean vineyards. A silky entry leads to a supple mid palate and a structured finish, reflecting the overall cooler vintage. Flavors are ripe cherry, creamy red licorice and cola, with a spice cabinet backup. There’s vitality and weight, with a structure that dances and will certainly reward cellaring.

Blending Detail and Aging Profile

Blending Detail:

• 51 % Grenache
• 18% Cinsault
• 12% Counoise
• 12% Mourvedre
• 7% Syrah

Aging Profile:

• Best from 2014 through 2020    
• Serve cool, 60-62°F

AVA & Vineyard Detail:

• 61% Yakima Valley
• 27% Red Mountain
• 12% Snipes Mountain

Acclaim

Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Advocate, (barrel tasting), 91-93

Starting off the Rhone blends, the 2011 Besoleil is a perfumed, supple vintage of this cuvee and offers up lively wild strawberry-driven fruit, white pepper, gunpowder and herbes de Provence-styled aromas and flavors. Made from 51% Grenache, 18% Cinsault, 12% Counoise, 12% Mourvedre and 7% Syrah, it is a medium-bodied, elegant and downright juicy southern Rhone-styled blend that will be ready to go on release and age gracefully for 5-7 years. Drink now-2020.