BETHEL HEIGHTS CHARDONNAY CASTEEL 750ML 2023

This wine is perennially one of the best Chardonnays in the region, a select blend from the finest barrels each vintage, with lots varying from year to year, bearing the family name Casteel. Aromatics of chipped flint, smoky grilled lemon wedge and sweet spiced notes of candied ginger leap forth. The palate is intensely coiled, electric minerality, crushed slate, briny notes of seaspray and savoury edges framed by lemon beebalm and verbena. The finish is long, contemplative. This is a wine to age for a decade before its full potential will be realised.

From the Justice Vineyard, the 2023 Chardonnay Casteel has slowly unfurling aromas of peach, pear, panna cotta, chamomile, honey and matchstick, gaining in intensity and expression as it airs in the glass. The medium-bodied palate is dynamic, detailed and perfumed with succulent flavors and a luxurious, silky texture. It’s balanced by vibrant acidity and has a very long finish.

The 2023 Chardonnay Casteel entices with a bouquet of dusty dried flowers, gingery spice, shaved pine and green apples. It is soothingly round and pliant, with a gentle mineral tinge and white pit fruits elevated by a hint of sour citrus. This 2023 shows excellent length and leaves the palate completely cleansed as flinty nuances and a tart green apple concentration fade. The combination of complexity, energy and freshness makes this a total pleasure to taste.