Terry Bering: Castalia Wines

Terry Bering started out as a gargariste, crafting Cabernet Sauvignon in a friend’s carport in Healdsburg in 1983. His first Pinot Noir came in 1985. After meeting Tom Rochioli, Bering worked the 1988 and 1989 crush at J. Rochioli Vineyards on Westside Road in Healdsburg. In 1990, he left his real estate job to work as the cellar master at J. Rochioli Vineyards. In 1992 he founded his own label, Castalia Wines, based on purchased grapes from the Rochioli Vineyard. Bering is now a hard-core pinotphile, drinking Pinot Noir almost exclusively. Castalia refers to Apollo’s favorite spring on Mount Parnassus in ancient Greece that bestowed drinkers of the spring gifts of poetry and inspiration. Bering produces a single Pinot Noir, sourced in 2006 from Rochioli’s 19 yearold River Block Vineyard and an 18 year old block planted to West Block clone (Flax Vineyard on Westside Road).

2006 Castalia Rochioli Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., 328 cases, $50. · The nose is brimming with black cherry fruit accompanied by subtle dried herbs, smoke and char. Restrained but generous dark red fruits, especially black raspberry, coat the mouth and are complimented by stylish oak spice. The wine sports a refined mouth feel and the right touch of acidity. An engaging Pinot Noir of the highest quality and one that Apollo would have surely enjoyed.

Castalia Wines are available from the website at www.castaliawines.com. Simply e-mail Terry Bering with your order. Magnums are available as well.