2018 Bethel Heights Chardonnay Casteel Willamette Valley

The 2018 Casteel Chardonnay is entirely from the block that rests immediately adjacent to the winery, planted in 1994. While it isn’t the oldest block of Chardonnay on our property, it has produced the most consistent quality for the past several years.  Extended aging in both barrels and stainless steel combined with full malolactic fermentation provides a richness and creamy texture to balance out the high natural acidity of both our site and the 2018 vintage.  This bottling has tremendous tension and poise and will benefit from decanting for early consumption or 5-7 years of cellaring.