The first bottled wine we tasted yesterday, the '17 Estate produced all smiles around the table. Only I knew the secret: the price. Genuine shock would be an apt description when the group learned of the bargain; the Estate bottling is always one of the value ambassadors of the Willamette Valley and when coupled with the 2017 vintage, the bar's been raised. From vines as young as 2002 to the oldest vines from the late '70s, what struck me anew yesterday was the concept that nothing is taken away during the composition of this wine; it is the gateway to Bethel Heights and thus, the standards for which fruit is included are rigorous. It is fantastic!
2016 vintage notes
93 points Wine Spectator: "Silky and vibrant, with spirited raspberry and violet aromas that open to effortlessly complex flavors of black cherry, black tea, cardamom and other dark spices. Drink now through 2024."
2014 vintage notes
92 points Wine Spectator: "Fresh and expressive, with depth to the plum, currant, floral and mineral flavors. Comes together seamlessly on the open-textured finish... Best from 2018 through 2024."
2012 vintage notes
92 points Wine Spectator: "Soft and appealing, with gentle blackberry and black plum flavors riding easily over polished tannins and lingering on the expressive finish. The tannins are well-integrated, the flavors persistent. Drink now through 2022."