Belle Glos 2023 Clark & Telephone Pinot Noir

The 2023 Belle Glos Clark & Telephone Pinot Noir is a tour de force in California winemaking, showcasing the singularity of its Santa Maria Valley terroir with breathtaking precision. From the moment the cork is pulled, an intoxicating bouquet of ripe black cherries, wild strawberries, and crushed raspberries bursts forth, underscored by exotic notes of baking spice, vanilla bean, and a whisper of caramelized oak. The aromatic intensity is both luxurious and evocative, hinting at the opulent experience to come.

On the palate, this Pinot Noir is nothing short of hedonistic. A velvety texture envelops the senses, revealing layers of luscious dark berry compote, spiced plum, and a delicate interplay of cocoa dust and sweet tobacco. The wine's impeccable balance of ripe fruit and judicious oak aging results in a complexity that is both deep and harmonious. Silky tannins glide effortlessly across the mid-palate, lending structure without overwhelming the wine’s inherent elegance.

The finish is where the true magic unfolds—seemingly endless, with waves of red and black fruit interwoven with hints of cola, licorice, and warm cinnamon. A vibrant streak of acidity ensures freshness, lifting the wine and providing a dynamic contrast to its rich, full-bodied profile. The Santa Maria Valley’s cool coastal influence is evident in every sip, offering a sense of place that makes this Pinot Noir unmistakably Clark & Telephone.

While undeniably captivating in its youth, the 2023 Belle Glos Clark & Telephone Pinot Noir possesses the depth and integrity to evolve gracefully over the next five to seven years. Its bold yet refined character makes it a natural companion to a variety of culinary pairings—think herb-crusted lamb, duck confit with cherry reduction, or even a decadent mushroom risotto. Each sip is a masterclass in Pinot Noir craftsmanship, a testament to the vineyard’s storied history and the meticulous winemaking philosophy behind Belle Glos.

For those who seek a Pinot Noir that seamlessly marries power with finesse, intensity with elegance, and concentration with balance, this vintage stands as a definitive expression of what California’s coastal terroir can achieve. The 2023 Belle Glos Clark & Telephone is more than just a wine—it’s an experience, an invitation to indulge in the artistry of Pinot Noir at its finest.

Alcohol: 14.9%

90 POINTS - "The dense nose on this bottling offers ripe aromas of boysenberry, elderberry, root beer and cola. The palate is quite thick and extremely bold, pairing baked blackberry with coffee cake and cinnamon cookie flavors." - Wine Enthusiast

Socially Rated 4+ / 5 ⭐

Deep ruby red in color with lush aromas of ripe cherry, nutmeg, dark chocolate and holiday baking spices. Bold and complex flavors of black plum, crushed raspberry and blueberry pie linger on the palate. The texture is rich and lively, and leads into a warm and structured finish.