The Belle Glos Dairyman Vineyard Pinot Noir is a luxurious expression of Sonoma County winemaking, offering a captivating experience for wine enthusiasts. This Pinot Noir features a deep garnet hue and an enticing bouquet of dark chocolate, black cherry, and blackberry pie, complemented by hints of black currant and cedar. On the palate, it unfolds layers of rich blackberry and raspberry pie filling, accented by cinnamon, nutmeg, and subtle chocolate undertones. Crafted with precision, it boasts smooth tannins, balanced acidity, and a medium finish, embodying the elegance and complexity of cool-climate Pinot Noir. Perfect for pairing with roasted meats, earthy vegetarian dishes, or simply enjoying on its own, this wine exemplifies Belle Glos' commitment to crafting bold, fruit-forward wines with a sense of place.
Process & Profile
The Dairyman Vineyard, formerly a dairy farm, is situated in the cool, foggy southern alluvial plains of the Russian River Valley in Sonoma County. Planted in 2000 with Dijon clones 115, 667, and 777 on low-vigor rootstock, this vineyard benefits from the cooling Petaluma Gap fog and coastal breezes, which create an extended growing season for concentrated and flavorful berries. The meticulous winemaking process includes early morning harvests to preserve freshness, a two-week cold soak for ideal flavor extraction, and fermentation with precise punch-downs and pump-overs. Aging occurs for nine months in 100% French oak (60% new), adding depth and complexity.
Tasting Notes
Belle Glos Dairyman Pinot Noir captivates with its rich garnet hue and an enticing bouquet of dark chocolate, black cherry, blackberry, and hints of cedar and black currant. The palate unfolds layers of blackberry and raspberry pie, complemented by notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and chocolate. Smooth tannins and a balanced structure complete the wine's velvety texture, leading to a lingering, mouthwatering finish that holds both concentration and elegance.
What Makes It Special
This wine embodies the craftsmanship and attention to detail that defines Belle Glos. The Dairyman Vineyard's unique terroir, with its cool climate and nutrient-poor soils, results in small berries packed with intense flavors. Winemaker Joseph Wagner's innovative approach to vineyard management and winemaking ensures each bottle expresses the vineyard's distinct character, making it a standout among California Pinot Noirs. This wine is consistently recognized for its depth, balance, and complexity, earning accolades from wine enthusiasts and critics alike, including a 94-point rating from Wine Enthusiast for its recent vintage.
How to Enjoy
Belle Glos Dairyman Pinot Noir pairs exceptionally well with a wide range of dishes. Its earthy, fruit-forward profile makes it an excellent complement to dishes like roasted duck, grilled salmon, and mushroom risotto. For vegetarians, it pairs beautifully with savory lentil stews or roasted root vegetables. Serve slightly below room temperature, around 60–65°F (15–18°C), and consider decanting to allow its rich flavors to fully develop. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for further aging, this wine promises an elegant and memorable experience.
Elevate your wine experience with Belle Glos Dairyman Vineyard Pinot Noir—an exquisite expression of Russian River Valley craftsmanship.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key tasting notes of Belle Glos Dairyman Vineyard Pinot Noir?
This wine is deep garnet in color and offers enticing aromas of dark chocolate, black cherry, and blackberry pie, with hints of black currant and cedar. On the palate, it has layered flavors of blackberry, raspberry pie filling, cinnamon, chocolate, and nutmeg. The wine is smooth and focused, with refined tannins and a mouthwatering finish.
What food pairs best with this wine?
Belle Glos Dairyman Vineyard Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, including tuna, chicken, duck, and vegetarian meals. Its rich flavor profile complements both light and hearty cuisine, making it a versatile choice for meals.
What is unique about the vineyard where this Pinot Noir is produced?
Dairyman Vineyard is located in the cool, foggy Russian River Valley of Sonoma County, California. Its coastal climate, with a balance of fog, wind, and sunlight, along with diverse soil types, contributes to the wine's rich complexity. The grapes are carefully cultivated and aged in select French oak barrels to highlight the vineyard's character.
What characteristics distinguish Belle Glos Pinot Noir from others?
Belle Glos Pinot Noir offers bold and concentrated flavors with natural acidity, showcasing the authenticity of Sonoma County Pinot Noir. The meticulous attention to vineyard management and winemaking decisions results in a wine that is both elegant and expressive, with a depth of flavor that sets it apart.
Is this Pinot Noir dry or sweet?
Belle Glos Dairyman Vineyard Pinot Noir is a dry wine. While it features vibrant fruit flavors like cherry and raspberry, these do not indicate sweetness but instead reflect the wine's rich and balanced profile.
What is the optimal serving temperature for this wine?
For the best experience, Belle Glos Dairyman Vineyard Pinot Noir should be served slightly below room temperature, around 55–60°F. Slightly chilling the wine can enhance its bright acidity and layered flavors.
How does this wine evolve with age?
This Pinot Noir is designed to age gracefully, developing additional complexity over time. As it matures, fruity flavors like cherry and blackberry may transition to dried fruit, with emerging notes of leather, earthiness, and forest floor, adding layers of sophistication.
What is the alcohol content of Belle Glos Dairyman Vineyard Pinot Noir?
This wine typically has an alcohol content between 13.5% and 15%, reflective of its warm California origins, which allow for optimal ripening of the grapes.
Can you describe the body and finish of this wine?
Belle Glos Dairyman Vineyard Pinot Noir is medium- to full-bodied with a silky texture. Its finish is long and complex, leaving lingering notes of spice and vibrant fruit.
What makes Pinot Noir such a beloved grape variety?
Pinot Noir is celebrated for its complexity, elegance, and ability to reflect the terroir where it is grown. Known for its red fruit flavors, subtle earthiness, and lower tannins, this grape produces wines that are versatile for pairing and enjoyable at various stages of aging.