For the 2004 vintage bottling, Belle Glos selected fruit from several different vineyards. The differences were apparent throughout the growing season, yielding a spectacular array of fruit as the grapes arrived at the winery. To preserve these characteristics, each lot was kept separate throughout the cycle of fermentation and aging in oak barrels. The wines made from the cooler, more ocean-influencedareas had well-developed cherry notes and slightly higher acidity. The wines made fromthe lower coastal hills-a little further from the ocean fogs and winds-contributed fruit notes that were darker and earthier. The wines made from the areas furthest inland, where daytimetemperatures are generally higher, were fruity and full bodied, with sweet tannins. The wines were blended together in a way that let each aroma, flavor and texture complement the othersyet keep its own identity. The result was an easy-drinking Pinot Noir that can be enjoyed every day: rich and deeply flavored but retaining the elegance and softness of this grape variety. Deep ruby color. Aromas of cherries, blackberries, roasted meats and earth. In the mouth, the berry fruit and lightly-smoked meat flavors, combined with a velvety, mouthcoating texture and balancing acidity, carry the wine through to a long, supple finish. Because of its layered flavors, the wine is versatile with a broad spectrum of foods and cooking styles, including roasted chicken or duck, grilled lamb and barbecued ribs.

Rating: 85/100 - As reviewed by Connoisseurs' Guide to California Wines on Jun-06.

Rating: 90/100 - As reviewed by The Wine News.

Rating for United States-California: 89 (slightly better than average year)<br/><br/>Drinkability: unpredictable<br/>