93 points Wine Spectator: "Sleek and harmonious, with pretty violet, raspberry and peppered meat accents that take on layers of complexity as this sails toward polished tannins. Grenache, Mourvèdre, Counoise and Syrah. Drink now through 2025. 350 cases made."
Us: This ode to Chateauneuf du Pape is easily, easily my favorite Besoleil. So elegant, so pure, so bright, so balanced, it is the rare Washington red that would be a great match for salmon. - Marcus
Betz: The name “Bésoleil” is a mixture of Spanish and French that means “kissed by the sun,” speaking to our long-held conviction that a profound expression of Grenache (and its Southern Rhône brethren) can emerge from Washington’s precise marriage of sun and soil. Modeled after Châteauneuf du Pape, the classic French Grenache-based gem, it is immediately enticing, richly scented and seductively textured. The 2017 Bésoleil manages to nimbly walk a tightrope between power and elegance. The brilliant ruby color promises the aromatic fireworks to follow; strawberry preserves, pomegranate and red raspberries, white and black pepper, freshly ground nutmeg, rose petals and potpurri. The silky palate expands into orange rind and hibiscus. Although supple and layered, there is bright acidity throughout that maintains both focus and freshness. The finish is lively and lengthy with pronounced mineral and dried herb notes. Delightful now, Bésoleil will continue to gain breadth and nuance over the next 7-10 years.
Grenache, Mourvèdre, Counoise and Syrah. 13.8% ABV