PORTLAND MONTHLY, SEPTEMBER 2011

2008 Bethel Heights Vineyard Pinot Noir Justice Vineyard – 89

($50) The Justice Vineyard is an Oregon Certified Sustainable wine, ensuring responsible growing and winemaking practices. This 2008 vintage’s cherry fruit, soft tannins, and fresh acidity balance out floral notes and deeper aromatics of leather and earth. Juicy and bright, this is a pretty glass for easy sipping.

2008 Bethel Heights Vineyard Pinot Noir Casteel Reserve – 88

($60) Fully destemming the grapes before fermentation (stems mean strong tannins) lent great fruit concentration to the finished product of this ripe, lush Pinot noir. A mild, bright, and easy-drinking wine, this will be delicious with hearty fall dishes like root vegetable stews and braised lamb.

2009 Bethel Heights Vineyard Chardonnay Estate Grown – 94

($25) Using a blend of Dijon and old-vine Wente clones, this classic Chardonnay shows a welcome balance of richness and bright acidity. The best of the old-school Oregon style, this rich, golden wine marries minerality and flavors of ripe pineapple and lemon zest, resulting in a smooth palate that’s full-bodied and perfumed but never cloying.