Took the gang out to lunch last week for a small celebration to Purple Cafe in Woodinville, and as usual the food was great and the service very attentive.

The noteworthy item(s) were that a delay in delivery of one of our entrees resulted in the entree being taken off our bill. Then one of my team then noticed a flaw in their order, and noted it to the waitress who alerted Sara Goodenow the manager. There was no major issue on his end, he just wanted to flag it so they could take action early. The result was another comped meal and a gift certificate for a future visit. Yet another example, of the “above and beyond” service The gang as Purple have internalized.

Nordstrom has become a legend due to their unflagging dedication to customer satisfaction. From this blogger’s point of view, Purple is on track to achieve similar status.

Note that Purple is NOT a sponsor of this site or any of our endeavors, and that I don’t love every restaurant I visit…

From Wine Spectator March 31, 2008 issue:
Betz Family Winery Syrah Red Mountain La Côte Rousse 2005
Highly Recommended 94 points
“Ripe and focused. A plush mouthful of raspberry, black cherry and rhubarb pie flavors play nicely against refined tannins and hints of roasted red peppers and pomegranate on the long, expressive finish. An intense Syrah that seems to float in midair. Best from 2010 through 2015.”

Betz Family Winery Syrah Columbia Valley Syrah Chapitre 3 2005
93 points
“Supple and generous, with a spicy, peach-like note adding interest to the currant, blackberry and tar flavors. Finishes with an open texture that makes this feel subtle and graceful. Drink now through 2015.”

Betz Family Winery Syrah Columbia Valley La Serenne 2005
91 points
“Lithe and appealing for its bright raspberry and blueberry flavors, wrapped softly in a blanket of fine tannins. The fruit persists against white pepper notes on the long finish. Drink now through 2012.”