BONUS! Hear Bob Betz’s take on the Washington Wine industry on TableTalk Radio!
Bob Betz, MS - Co-Chair for the 2012 Auction of Washington Wines
Name: Bob Betz, MS
Location: Woodinville, WA
Winery: Betz Family Winery
What do you think Washington wines will be known for in 25 years, as compared to now? Cabernet Sauvignon, our greatest grape, Syrah, a close second, and Riesling.
Who in the industry should we be watching? Tyson Schiffner, Betz Family assistant winemaker!
“I want to own a winery and make wine.” – Advice? Make sure you are amply financed so that you can survive 5 years without any positive cash flow; have a plan on how to sell your wine and not just the passion to make it.
How long have you been at this? 2012 is my 37th vintage in Washington wine
Favorite wine and food pairing? Sauterne and foie gras
Favorite bottle (besides your own)? All these wines, not enough time
Clos de Betz Bourdeaux Blend
Winery pet and name? Woody
Something about you that few people know? Summer college job: putting the cream filling in Twinkies
Something about your winery that few people know? The small “estate vineyard” planted in front of the winery is Gruner Veltliner; some vintage we hope to ripen it sufficiently to make a small amount white wine.
If you weren’t crushing grapes, what would you be doing? Not sure what it is specifically, but it would involve being barefoot
Strangest place you’ve served your wine? During my Chateau Ste. Michelle years, aboard the nuclear powered submarine Henry M Jackson at its christening in Groton, CT.
Describe yourself in two words: Wine Geeky
Describe your wine in two words: Red, Yum
What do you like most about the Auction of Washington Wines weekend? The beneficiary (Seattle Children’s Hospital); the annual opportunity for the community to gather and celebrate Washington wine.
Catch a short interview Bob Betz, MS (and TableTalk Regular Contributor Sean Sullivan from the Washington Wine Report):
Meet Bob Betz, this year’s co-chair, at the upcoming Auction of Washington Wines 25th anniversary celebration, August 16-18.
Visit www.auctionofwashingtonwines.com for more information.
