22. Bethel Heights Vineyard 2012 Aeolian Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills, $42
Brothers Ted and Terry Casteel helped pioneer the Eola-Amity Hills near Salem, Ore., when they planted their vineyard beginning in 1977. Today, Ben Casteel is the head winemaker, and Bethel Heights’ wines are as good as ever. Using vines that are up to 20 years old, he has crafted one of the superb wines form the region. Aromas of crushed red fruit, black licorice, vanilla bean and baking spices give way to flavors of pomegranate, boysenberry and raspberry. It has beautiful concentration now and will undoubtedly continue to become even greater for those with the courage to cellar this for a half-decade or more.
Production: 2,390 cases
Alcohol: 13.7%
Luna Snoqualmie says
Chateau Ste. Michelle Dry Riesling is my entertaining go-to. Pairs beautifully with almost everything on the buffet, from cold cuts, chips and finger food to smoked salmon pate’ and sushi. An affordable crowd-pleaser.