Belle Glos 2018 Pinot Noir, Las Alturas Vyd., Santa Lucia Highlands, Magnum 1.5L

Magnum 1.5Liter
Belle Glos is a super premium Pinot Noir produced by none other than the Wagner family, famous for Caymus Vineyards. The striking red wax capsule is a statement to the exceptional character of this wine. The Wagner family purchased prime vineyard property in the Santa Lucia Highlands, famous for bold, distinctive Pinot Noir. Their Las Alturas Vineyard is a mere 15 acres and the sandy loam soils provide good drainage and yields are kept under two tons per acre. In this high altitude coastal enclave the carefully selected clones ripen slowly, developing rich, intensive flavors.

In 2018 the cool weather of the late summer extended into September, the crop ripened evenly and the fruit was characterized as having very good acidity, delightful flavor development, and intense color; an outstanding vintage.

After destemming but not crushing, the berries were cold-soaked for up to two weeks to soften the skins and allow for ideal extraction. During fermentation in a combination of closed and open-top stainless steel fermenters, we used both punch-downs and pump-overs to extract color and tannins, and also to control temperatures and maximize flavors. aged the wine in 100% French oak (60% new) for up to nine months.

Wine Enthusiast Magazine scored this 94 points saying "Dark in the glass, this is a powerful Pinot Noir, with intense aromas of black plum, purple flowers and toasty melted caramel. The palate is loaded with herbs and spice, from tarragon, sage and bay lead to cardamom and anise, as well as a think and rich boysenberry jam core. The layers won’t quit."