Bob Betz MW returns to Col Solare as Consulting Winemaker

Col Solare, the landmark joint venture between Ste. Michelle Wine Estates and the Antinori family on Washington State’s Red Mountain, today announced that Bob Betz MW has returned to the winery as Consulting Winemaker.

Betz previously had a 28-year career with Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, retiring as Vice President of Winemaking Research in 2003. During his tenure, he served as Managing Director of Col Solare from the inception of the partnership in 1995, working closely with the Antinori family and their CEO and Chief Enologist, Renzo Cotarella.

Betz founded his own winery, Betz Family Winery, in 1997, which has since become one of the most celebrated wineries in Washington State. He sold the winery in 2011, but continues as its consulting winemaker. Betz began his new role as Consulting Winemaker for Col Solare in early 2017.

Darel Allwine, who has just completed his 21st harvest in Washington State, remains the Winemaker for Col Solare and will work closely with Betz and Cotarella, along with renowned Washington State vineyard manager Dick Boushey, who manages Col Solare’s estate vineyard on Red Mountain.

Col Solare will release its 20th vintage, 2014, later this spring. The 2014 vintage represents another milestone for Red Mountain’s flagship wine: previously a proprietary red blend, Col Solare will now be a varietally-labeled Cabernet Sauvignon.

# # #

For further information:
Ryan Pennington
(206) 550-0579
ryan.pennington@smwe.com