BIEN NACIDO The Pillars Series Pinot Noir 'The Captain' - Santa Maria Valley 2018 Bottle (los)

Description

IN BRIEF
Bien Nacido The Pillars Series Pinot Noir 'The Captain' 2018 is an exceptional wine showcasing the quality of Pinot Noir grown in the esteemed Bien Nacido Vineyard in the Santa Maria Valley. This vintage highlights ideal growing conditions, with cool ocean breezes and diverse soils enhancing its nuanced flavours. Upon pouring, 'The Captain' reveals a beautiful ruby red colour, inviting exploration. The nose offers bright red fruit aromas of strawberries, raspberries, and cherries, complemented by earthy notes and delicate florals. On the palate, it features an elegant structure, balanced soft tannins, and refreshing acidity. Critics have awarded it 95 points from Wine Enthusiast and 94 points from Anne Krebiehl MW, making it a standout choice for wine enthusiasts looking for a premium Pinot Noir experience.

ABOUT THIS WINE
Bien Nacido The Pillars Series Pinot Noir 'The Captain' 2018 is a distinguished expression that showcases the exceptional quality of Pinot Noir grown in the renowned Bien Nacido Vineyard, located in the Santa Maria Valley. The Pillars Series is designed to highlight the unique characteristics of this varietal, and 'The Captain' is a testament to the vineyard's storied history and commitment to excellence.

This 2018 vintage reflects the ideal growing conditions of the region, where cool ocean breezes and diverse soils contribute to the development of nuanced flavours and aromas. Upon pouring, 'The Captain' reveals a beautiful ruby red colour, inviting you to explore its depth.

On the nose, the wine offers an enticing bouquet of bright red fruit aromas, featuring strawberries, raspberries, and cherries, intertwined with subtle earthy notes and delicate floral hints. This aromatic complexity sets the stage for a rewarding tasting experience, inviting you to savour its layers.

On the palate, Bien Nacido Pinot Noir 'The Captain' is characterised by its elegant structure and balance. The initial brightness of the fruit is complemented by soft tannins and a refreshing acidity, creating a harmonious interplay of flavours. Notes of wild berries, vanilla, and a touch of spice emerge, adding further depth and complexity to the tasting experience.

The finish is smooth and lingering, leaving a delightful impression of fruit and earthiness that invites another sip. This Pinot Noir is versatile, pairing beautifully with a variety of dishes such as grilled salmon, roasted chicken, or mushroom risotto, making it an excellent choice for both casual gatherings and special occasions.

Bien Nacido The Pillars Series Pinot Noir 'The Captain' 2018 is a remarkable wine that reflects the artistry of winemaking and the unique terroir of the Santa Maria Valley. Its elegant profile and rich character make it a standout choice for wine enthusiasts seeking to indulge in a premium Pinot Noir experience. Enjoy this captivating wine and discover the essence of one of California's finest vineyards.

WINE ENTHUSIAST 95 points
Wildly dynamic aromas kick off the nose of this reserve bottling, from raw meat and matsutake mushrooms to sour cranberry and rosemary needles. The gamy, earthy experience expands on the sip, where mulberry, black-pepper, dried and raw meats and cherry-pit flavors arise. It's almost Syrah-like in its savory showing. — Matt Kettmann

ANNE KREBIEHL MW 94 points
An initial hit of cherries in Kirsch signals Californian sunshine. More air reveals a lick of vanilla and the spicy, savoury scent of rose hedges, there also is a lovely earthy edge. The palate has wonderful freshness to counter the ripe cherry flavours and a beautiful seam on peppery spice to add dimension and depth to this beautifully balanced wine with its pure and lifted cherry fruit.

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ABOUT BIEN NACIDO
Bien Nacido Vineyard is a prestigious wine producer located in the Santa Maria Valley of California, celebrated for its exceptional quality and distinctive vineyard characteristics. Established in 1973, Bien Nacido has played a significant role in shaping the reputation of the Central Coast wine region, particularly known for its high-quality Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines.

The vineyard spans over 200 acres and is noted for its unique terroir, which boasts a combination of diverse soils, gentle slopes, and a climate that benefits from both coastal breezes and sunny days. This ideal environment allows for balanced grape ripening, contributing to the complexity and depth of flavour in the wines produced. Bien Nacido's commitment to sustainable farming practices ensures that the vineyard maintains its health and productivity for future generations.

Bien Nacido is particularly renowned for its small-lot, premium wines crafted by a selection of esteemed producers who source grapes from the vineyard. This collaborative approach allows for a variety of interpretations of the terroir, with each winemaker bringing their unique style and vision to the wines. As a result, Bien Nacido wines consistently receive high praise and accolades, showcasing the quality and craftsmanship that stems from this iconic vineyard.

In addition to its focus on producing exceptional wines, Bien Nacido is dedicated to community engagement and environmental stewardship. The vineyard hosts events and educational programs aimed at promoting the appreciation of fine wine and sustainable agriculture.

With its rich history, commitment to quality, and collaborative spirit, Bien Nacido Vineyard stands out as a beacon of excellence in the California wine industry. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a meal, wines from Bien Nacido offer a true reflection of the Santa Maria Valley's unique terroir and winemaking heritage, making it a must-try for wine enthusiasts.