2021 Bethel Heights Pinot Noir Aeolian Vineyard
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Darkly floral, the 2021 Pinot Noir Aeolian opens with a cascade of violets and lavender, giving way to crushed blackberries. This is softly textured yet energetic, with crisp red fruits and tactile mineral tones guided by brisk acidity. This finishes wickedly fresh with gentle tannins, leaving a slowly fading minty freshness.
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Jeb Dunnuck
Erin Brooks, Wine Advocate
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A cuvée Bethel Heights began making in 2012, the deep ruby 2021 Pinot Noir Aeolian is expressive with spicy aromatics of lavender, quinine, anise, and black raspberry preserve. Ripe and full-bodied, with sweet tannins, notes of turned mossy earth, and well-balanced acidity, it finishes with toasted spices and a warming feel. Drink 2025-2035. The 2021 lineup from Bethel Heights was tasting with winemaker Ben Casteel, who took over from his father Terry in 2005. All of their fruit is estate-farmed and has been certified organic since 2021. Walking the vineyards, which are all contiguous just outside the winery, they feature ungrafted vines that were planted in 1979.
The 2021 Pinot Noir AEolian comes from blocks planted in 2002, just next to Temperance Hill Vineyard. It has a pale ruby-purple color and layered aromas of cranberries, woodsmoke, garrigue, pipe tobacco and tar. The light-bodied palate is chalky and fresh with a deep core of expressive red berry fruit and a long, spice and earth-laced finish.