2004 Bethel Heights Pinot Noir Casteel Reserve- USA, Oregon, Willamette Valley, Eola - Amity Hills (1/15/2012)
Personally, I have limited experience with BH, but I believe the general consensus is that the CR is a well-made, flashy Reserve wine, generated for complex, yet early drinking in compared to the single vineyard pinots. Decanted 4 hrs., Fantastic nose, exotic s brown spices, cured meat, a well-placed sliver of oak, all wrapped around fresh picked blackberries. The palate has just hit the early plateau of maturity I think, as the triad of fruit, tannin, and acidity seem to be in perfect harmony, though surprisingly spry and still full of energy. At once smooth to drink but leaves a wake of intellectual contemplation on the long, white pepper filled finish. Really nice drink. Consume now and over the next 5 years, with ease. (92 pts.)
It seems to me that this blend, which had some Seven Springs in it until the vineyard was no longer available to them, is built to appeal to critics who want a “more is better” wine. Just my dos centavos’ worth.
As this is the only Castel Reserve I have ever had (the 04 second time) last nights wine was not left wanting for anything, and do I recal it being a tad on the rich side when initially tasted, but has mellowed quite well If I do say so, BTW the vineyard breakdown is: 20% BH Wadenswil Block- 25% BH Flat Block - 25% Clone 114 - 30% Seven Springs.
We carried the 03, 04 and 05 Bethel Heights Casteel Reserve. The 03 and 04 vintages were pretty good and pretty popular, though we found them to be on the lighter side with good fruit. The 05 was a little bigger with more fruit and flew out. Thought we might still have a bottle of one of those vintages to revisit, but alas, none left.
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