"This has strident peppery notes with a layer of sappy whole-cluster fragrances and complexity as well as fresh charcuterie meats, smoky notes and graphite. Red plums and blackberries lurk beneath. The palate has deep chocolate and cherry fruits. Very suave, supple tannins carry dark plums, dark chocolate and energetic freshness to the finish. Give this 2-3 years to integrate."
- James Suckling (2018), 95 pts

Go To Betz Family Domaine de Pierres

"Bright, dark red. Musky peppery lift to the highly complex aromas of raspberry, spices, soy sauce, rose petal, black olive and game; a meaty high-pH quality is in balance with the wine's other components. Densely packed, silky and utterly suave, with dark raspberry and subtle game flavors lifted by captivating black olive, licorice, pepper and herb notes. This wonderfully fine-grained, bright, smooth wine delivers terrific density and umami silkiness without any heaviness; in fact, it's downright light on its feet owing to its inner-mouth aromatic lift. Perhaps most impressive today on the very subtle, building, floral aftertaste, where a fine dusting of tannins coats the entire palate. A lovely expression of Syrah and a sentimental favorite in my Washington tastings this year. With its notes of red fruits, bacon fat and spices, this reminded me of Côte-Rôtie. (100% whole-cluster fermentation) - Stephen Tanzer"

-Antonio Galloni's Vinous (December 2020), 94 pts

"A chewy, savory red with aromas of cherries, boysenberries, herbs, charcoal, whole peppercorn and Indian spices. Sweet tobacco. It’s medium-to full-bodied with firm tannins and bright acidity. Flavorful, rich and deliciously spicy. Long, polished finish. Drink now or hold."

- James Suckling (July 2021), 95 pts

"Coming from the Ancient Stones vineyard in the Rocks District of Walla Walla Valley, comes the 2018 Syrah Domaine de Pierres is 100% Syrah and was made with 100% whole-cluster fermentation. The wine is deep ruby colored and opens to a nose that is immediately impressive, showcasing a high-toned red-berry fruit essence with a mineral tension. Seductive aromas of black raspberry, nuances of smoked meats, black pepper and cherry blossom tones emanate from the glass. Medium-bodied but jam-packed with complexity, flavors of black cherry and dusty pepper skin begin to tie the tongue with flavors of dried herbs, hung and curing sausages with a red fruit compote expression. The structure and balance are completely mind-blowing, and the wine ends with a long, winding, evolving and complex finish. Boom! This is absolutely stellar by the way that shines through with beauty and elegance and will age like a champ. Only 3,000 bottles were produced. - Anthony Mueller"

- Robert Parker's Wine Advocate (October 2020), 95 pts