This a very rare find, Bethel Height's "Lewman Vineyard" Pinot Noir is not often seen outside of the winery's mailing list and tasting room. In fact, I believe we're the only folks in California who have this wine right now as we brought it direct from the winery. Bethel Heights needs little introduction as one of of the most iconic, founding estates in the Willamette Valley. First plantted in 1977, their Eola-Amity Hills estate has played a pivotal role in putting Oregon Pinot Noir on the world map. However, Lewman Vineyard is a little more boutique and less broadly known. Planted in 1992 by the late Dennis Lewman, this property neighbored Bethel Heights until 2020 when the Casteel family (who own Bethel Heights) got the opportunity to purchase it. Knowing this was world-class terroir, brining the block into the fold of their estate was an easy decisions for the family. Lewman is an ultra high-density planting with very narrow spacing between the rows and individual vines a la Burgundy. The original 1993 block is Pommard Clone with subsequent plantings adding Dijon clones 667, 777, and 115. The soils here are particularly shallow with very rocky, volcanic, Nekia series soil. This low-yielding, high-density, windswept site produces Pinot Noir with uncommon depth and concentration. As you can see from the enormous critical acclaim, this is a Grand Cru parcel of vines now farmed and crafted by one of the most renowned winegrowing families in the country. This is a very special bottle of wine that right now is in my shortlist for the Woodhouse Thanksgiving table. The wine has a fascinating interplay of fruit and savory (like the very best Pinot Noirs often do). The nose opens with wild red fruits, damp forest floor, earthy spices, sandalwood, truffle. With air the fruit turns a little darker and more brooding, some black raspberry and bramble fruit. More mulling spice tones, fine, velvety tannins, brisk, focused acidity, incredible length and resonance on the palate. You can really study how this wine unfurls in the glass over an hour of two. Definitely a wine that deserves some repose in a decanter and your best stemware to let it show its complex layers and depth. A very serious, world-class Pinot Noir that stands shoulder to shoulder with wines 2-3 times the price. If you're looking for something special for the holidays, but don't necessarily want to spend a fortune, this is a fantastic option.

This 2022 Estate Pinot Noir is immediately captivating with its very perfumed aromatics, led by a delicate scent of dried rose. A wave of concentrated dark cherry defines the palate, giving the wine a sense of depth and richness. A distinct savory quality emerges mid-palate, weaving through the fruit with an appealing hint of earthiness. The wine feels perfectly balanced, with all its components integrated seamlessly for a smooth and elegant texture. The finish is persistent, leaving a lasting impression of both floral and savory notes.

This elegant gem has the backbone to age beautifully over the coming years as well as shine brightly in its youth. You will notice the impressively layered potpourri of ripe aromatics and a touch of graphite before the glass even meets your lips. This is an excellent gastronomic wine with a throughline of clean acidity, savory undertones, and a long chewy tannic finish. The palate tastes remarkably like pomegranate with a twist of orange peel.