Very precise, focused aromas of blackberry, blackcurrant and dark chocolate with violet and light tar undertones. Floral. Full-bodied, yet so manicured and refined with tannins that are polished and slightly dusty. Vibrant energy in the tannins, instead of just raw power. Some minerality. Very long finish. 65% cabernet sauvignon, 15% merlot,, 13% petit verdot, and 4% cabernet franc. Try after 2027, but already such a beautiful young wine. 580 cases made.
98 points, James Suckling (Apr 2021)
Possibly the finest vintage for this cuvée (at least that I’ve tasted), the 2018 Bettina is a brilliant blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Merlot, 13% Petit Verdot, and the rest Cabernet Franc. Its vivid ruby/purple color is followed by a captivating nose of crème de cassis, white flowers, toasty oak, bay leaf, and mountain scrub brush-like nuances. Medium to full-bodied, flawlessly balanced, and seamless on the palate, it’s going to benefit from bottle age, but I’d certainly struggle to keep my hands off bottles.
97 points, Jeb Dunnuck (Jan 2021)
The 2018 Bettina is a classy, polished wine right out of the bottle. A burst of inky dark fruit, lavender, spice, menthol and dried herbs makes a strong opening statement. The decision to use some whole clusters and the elevated amount of Petit Verdot results in a savory, beautifully perfumed wine that impresses from start to finish. Elegant and so precise, the 2018 Bettina is terrific. This is the first vintage of the Bettina to incorporate a dollop of fruit from Bryant Estate as a complement to the Abreu fruit that informs the core of the blend.
97 points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous (Jan 2021)