Part of the Wagner wine empire (the folks who make Caymus), Belle Glos is a Pinot Noir-exclusive outfit that makes wines from grapes ranging from the Sonoma Coast to Santa Barbara. We tried all three wines the winery (pronounced Bell Gloss) is releasing from the 2010 vintage.

Yes, that is red wax that stretches down almost to the label. And yes, it is hell to get through it to the cork.

2010 Belle Glos Pinot Noir Santa Barbara County Clark & Telephone Vineyard – Extremely fruit forward, with blueberry and strawberry notes at the forefront. Candied violets give this Pinot a sweeter, almost jammy feel, and a body that lacks the oomph of many Santa Barbara area wines. B+

2010 Belle Glos Pinot Noir Monterey County Las Alturas Vineyard – A little less concentrated, with a bigger, rounder body. Dark fruit — blackberries namely — dominate here, along with a touch of leathery, tobacco leaf character. More exciting while still easy to drink. A-

2010 Belle Glos Pinot Noir Sonoma County Taylor Lane Vineyard – The most tart of this bunch (though it’s still quite concentrated and deep), with a distinct, dark chocolate finish. A bit flabby, dense body. The overall effect is a bit like a chocolate-covered blueberry, which is actually a nice way to finish off this roundup. B+

each $44 / belleglos.com

2010 Belle Glos Pinot Noir Santa Barbara County Clark & Telephone Vineyard

$44

8.5

Rating

8.5/10

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