Belle Glos Pinot Noir, Clark & Telephone Vineyard 2016, Santa Maria Valley, Santa Barbara County, California

The Clark & Telephone Vineyard was established in 1972 and planted with ‘own root’ Martini clone vines. Located, just 13 miles from the ocean and situated on a west-facing slope, this vineyard experiences weather patterns that pull from west to east to bring cool fog and coastal breezes inland. This climate makes for later-ripening and longer-hanging grapes with a delightful fruitiness, great acidity and underlying flavor nuances that contribute additional complexity. Only the free-run juice is barreled, discarding the press. Aged in 100% French oak (60% new, 40% seasoned) for up to 9 months. Deep scarlet-red with lush aromas of blackberry bramble, nutmeg and a hint of caramel. The
wine is fresh and exuberant in the mouth with sumptuous strawberry jam, ripe black cherry, cranberry and warm gingerbread. Velvety tannins, and a hint of toffee.