Bethel Heights Vineyard
The ideals of the 1960s, a passion for Pinot Noir and inexpensive land played a part in the unlikely creation of Bethel Heights Vineyard. Twins Terry and Ted Casteel and their wives Marilyn Webb and Pat Dudley were all refugees from academia and young parents yearning for a way to blend family with career. Blind tastings for fun and a love of Pinot Noir soon led to dreams of a winery.
The fabulous wines we featured:
2011 Estate Pinot Noir
- 90 points, The Wine Advocate
- Pair with duck, salmon and lamb
Tasting Notes: Aromas of raspberries, black currant, rhubarb, sandalwood, clove and black pepper. On the Palate: Dark pit fruit (plum, cherry) flavors predominate, with notes of fresh ginger, black tea, iris root and citrus oils.
2012 Estate Chardonnay
- Drink now or hold up to 2019
- Pairs well with shellfish, creamy soups like Butternut Squash soup, goat cheese and brie
Tasting Notes: Honeydew melon, white peach, lemon verbena and hints of star anise, nutmeg and white pepper with flavors of banana and lemon zest with a hint of salinity. Bright acidity enfolds a long, elegant finish.
Winemaker's Notes
When our family arrived at Bethel Heights in 1977 we found a flourishing ecosystem in place: healthy living soils, a stream running through a shady ravine fed by a pure clean spring, and a rich diversity of wildlife with which we have learned to co-habit. Above all else we have sought to grow our grapes and make our wine without diminishing the life of this place.
Oregon
Terry and Ted Casteel and their wives Marilyn Webb and Pat Dudley
Ben Casteel