Belle Glos Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir 2002

Clear, dark ruby color. Rich strawberry/cranberry aromas with a hint of sweet, smoky oak. In the mouth, firm acids yield to full, ripe cranberry flavors and silky tannins. The wine's crisp acidity and moderate tannin seem to extend the fruity, lightly smoke-tinged cranberry finish.

This Sonoma Coast bottling was created to showcase the potential of this emerging coastal growing region. The grapes we selected came from three vineyards within the sub-appellations of this area, each of which produced Pinot Noir with its own character. In blending these wines together, we wanted to achieve a multi-layered wine that revealed the fruit's origins but also expressed the many flavors of the coastlands. Even within the confines of the Sonoma Coast appellation, there are important differences in site, soil and climate. In wines produced from the western area, cherry notes are well developed and acidity is slightly higher. In the east, the fruit notes are darker and more earthy. In the inland area, the wines are full bodied and fruity with sweet tannins and beautiful balance. In combination, these characteristics enhance and build on each other.