Winemaker Notes
Blend: 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc, 2% Petit Verdot
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2010 Bettina is drop dead gorgeous. Mint, cloves, flowers, menthol and licorice are some of the many notes that burst from the glass. The 2010 is all about nuance, delineation and precision. There is a vibrancy to the 2010 that is simply striking. Dark blue and black fruit, balsamic notes, crushed rocks and pencil shavings are all layered into the powerful, mineral-infused finish. This is a stellar showing from Bryant. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2030.
Rating: 97+ -
Wine Spectator
Jazzy oak delivers mocha, espresso and vanilla bean up front, with the core flavors centered around vibrant currant, wild berry, cedar and cigar box. Gains all the way, ending with a long, persistent finish that keeps opening doors of flavor. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2028. 396 cases made.
Undoubtedly proving its merit over and over, Napa Valley is a now a leading force in the world of prestigious red wine regions. Though Cabernet Sauvignon dominates Napa Valley, other red varieties certainly thrive here. Important but often overlooked include Merlot and other Bordeaux varieties well-regarded on their own as well as for their blending capacities. Very old vine Zinfandel represents an important historical stronghold for the region and Pinot noir is produced in the cooler southern parts, close to the San Pablo Bay.
Perfectly situated running north to south, the valley acts as a corridor, pulling cool, moist air up from the San Pablo Bay in the evenings during the hot days of the growing season, which leads to even and slow grape ripening. Furthermore the valley claims over 100 soil variations including layers of volcanic, gravel, sand and silt—a combination excellent for world-class red wine production.