Discover the exquisite allure of Belle Glos Taylor Lane Vineyard Pinot Noir, a masterful expression of Sonoma Coast elegance. This 2014 vintage, expertly crafted from premium Pinot Noir grapes, captivates with its deep ruby hue and complex aromas of ripe cherry, blackberry, and forest floor, accentuated by notes of baking spices and cedar. The palate unfolds with bold flavors of black plum, crushed raspberry, and a touch of licorice, supported by supple tannins and a vibrant acidity. Aged in 100% French oak, the wine achieves a velvety texture and a long, balanced finish that lingers luxuriously. Perfect for cellaring or enjoying now, it pairs beautifully with roasted meats, earthy dishes, or as a luxurious indulgence on its own. Experience the pinnacle of cool-climate Pinot Noir with this exceptional release.
Process & Profile
The Taylor Lane Vineyard is located in the rugged and elevated West Sonoma Coast, just over five miles from the Pacific Ocean. With a distinct marine influence, cool fog, and Goldridge sandy loam soils, this location fosters the development of elegant Pinot Noir. The 2014 vintage was crafted with precision, undergoing cryo-extraction, cold soaking, and fermentation using both punch-down and pump-over techniques to extract vibrant flavors while preserving finesse. Aged in 60% new French oak barrels for 22 months, this Pinot Noir achieves complexity and balance that only time can deliver.
Tasting Notes
This wine showcases a bold yet refined flavor profile. Aromas of ripe Bing cherry, blackberry, tobacco, and forest floor invite you in, while the palate unfolds with layered notes of cherry, apple, and blackberry balanced by bright acidity and subtle minerality. Subtle hints of oak spice, smoked caramel, and cinnamon-spiked cranberry sauce add depth, leading to a silky-smooth texture and a long, supple finish. The wine's complexity and structure make it a standout, with its flavors evolving beautifully over time.
What Makes It Special
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Unique Terroir: Situated in the West Sonoma Coast AVA, this vineyard benefits from coastal fog and sandy loam soils, which impart distinctive minerality and vibrant acidity.
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Craftsmanship: Joseph Wagner, owner and winemaker, ensures each vintage reflects the vineyard's character through meticulous winemaking techniques.
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Limited Cellared Release: The Taylor Lane Pinot Noir is only released in magnums after extensive aging, allowing for optimal wine development and a rewarding drinking experience.
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Critical Acclaim: The 2014 vintage has earned a remarkable 97 points from *Tasting Panel* and is considered one of Belle Glos's finest achievements.
How to Enjoy
Belle Glos Taylor Lane Vineyard Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with a variety of rich dishes:
- Serve alongside roasted duck, lamb, or game meats to complement its robust flavors.
- Pair with charcuterie, hard cheeses, or earthy dishes like wild mushroom risotto to enhance its savory depth.
- Decant the wine to allow its complex aromas to fully awaken, and serve slightly below room temperature (60–65°F) for optimal enjoyment.
Whether you're celebrating a milestone or indulging in a personal moment, this wine delivers a luxurious experience that lingers long after the last sip.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is special about the Belle Glos Taylor Lane Vineyard Pinot Noir?
This Pinot Noir is the first wine under the newly minted West Sonoma Coast AVA, crafted to showcase the unique terroir of the Taylor Lane Vineyard. The majestic vineyard location contributes distinctive flavors including notes of plum, hints of burnt edges, and aromas reminiscent of freshly tilled land and rich oak forests in autumn. The wine embodies a sense of place, reflecting the cool coastal climate and complex soils of the vineyard.
What flavors and aromas can I expect from this Pinot Noir?
The Belle Glos Taylor Lane Vineyard Pinot Noir offers luscious flavors of dark red and black fruit such as plum complemented by subtle earthy undertones. On the nose, it has aromas of crème de cassis, freshly tilled soil, and a rich autumn forest. Its aging in French oak further enhances its complexity with layers of vanilla and spice.
What makes Pinot Noir different from other red wines?
Pinot Noir is known for its light to medium body, lower tannins, and high acidity, making it an elegant and approachable wine. Common tasting notes include cherry, raspberry, and mushroom, with subtle undertones of forest floor and spice when aged. Compared to heavier red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir expresses a delicate, refined profile and is highly reflective of its terroir.
What is the alcohol content of Belle Glos Taylor Lane Vineyard Pinot Noir?
The alcohol content of this wine typically falls between 13.5% and 15%, reflecting the ripeness of the grapes in California's coastal climate, which contributes to its bold yet balanced structure.
How should I serve this wine?
For optimal enjoyment, serve this Pinot Noir slightly below room temperature, around 55-60 degrees Fahrenheit. Decanting the wine for 30-60 minutes before serving can help to open up its complex aromas and flavors. It pairs well with dishes like roasted duck, mushroom risotto, or grilled salmon.
Is Pinot Noir typically dry or sweet?
Pinot Noir, including this Belle Glos wine, is almost always made in a dry style. While it has juicy fruit flavors, nearly all of the grape's sugar is converted into alcohol during fermentation, leaving little to no residual sweetness.
What is the significance of the Taylor Lane Vineyard location?
The Taylor Lane Vineyard is situated near the Pacific Ocean on California's Sonoma Coast, an area known for its cool climate and foggy conditions. These elements, combined with meticulous vineyard management, produce grapes with concentrated flavors and vibrant acidity that result in a wine showcasing the pure essence of this unique locale.
How does Belle Glos ensure the quality of its Pinot Noirs?
Belle Glos carefully manages every step of the winemaking process, from selecting specific rootstocks and clones for each vineyard to utilizing tailored fermentation and aging techniques. Each barrel of wine is tasted repeatedly, and the final blend is crafted to ensure depth, elegance, and complexity in every bottle.
What food pairs well with this wine?
The Belle Glos Taylor Lane Vineyard Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with earthy dishes like wild mushroom pasta, roasted lamb, or duck with a cherry reduction. It also complements grilled salmon or vegetarian dishes featuring caramelized root vegetables.