Bien Nacido
The Captain Santa Maria Valley Reserve Pinot Noir
Santa Maria Valley, Central Coast, California, USA
Bien Nacido Estate – Pinot Noir “The Captain” 2022
Santa Maria Valley AVA, Santa Barbara County, California – USA 🇺🇸
Overview
Often referred to as the “Grand Cru of California vineyards”, Bien Nacido has built a legendary reputation since 1973 for producing some of the state’s finest Pinot Noir and Syrah. “The Captain” is a limited parcel Pinot Noir, shaped by cool ocean breezes and limestone-rich soils that bring freshness, elegance, and a true sense of place.
Aromas & Flavors
Lifted aromas of wild strawberry, red cherry, and pomegranate mingle with rose petals, white pepper, and forest floor. On the palate, flavors of raspberry compote, dried herbs, and a touch of baking spice unfold gracefully.
Mouthfeel
Medium-bodied, elegant, and structured. Silky tannins glide through vibrant acidity, finishing long and lifted with red fruit purity and earthy undertones.
Winemaking Notes
Grapes hand-harvested from select hillside blocks of Bien Nacido Estate. Whole-cluster fermentation adds aromatic lift and savory complexity. Aged in French oak barrels (30–40% new) for nuance without overpowering the fruit.
Food Pairing
Perfect with duck breast, roasted salmon, mushroom risotto, or truffle pasta. Its finesse also shines with charcuterie and artisanal cheeses.
Verdict
The Captain captures the pinnacle of Bien Nacido Pinot Noir — terroir-driven, age-worthy, and undeniably elegant. A bottle that blends history, pedigree, and craftsmanship into one unforgettable wine.
Bien Nacido Estate – Pinot Noir “The Captain” 2022
Santa Maria Valley AVA, Santa Barbara County, California – USA 🇺🇸
Overview
Often referred to as the “Grand Cru of California vineyards”, Bien Nacido has built a legendary reputation since 1973 for producing some of the state’s finest Pinot Noir and Syrah. “The Captain” is a limited parcel Pinot Noir, shaped by cool ocean breezes and limestone-rich soils that bring freshness, elegance, and a true sense of place.
Aromas & Flavors
Lifted aromas of wild strawberry, red cherry, and pomegranate mingle with rose petals, white pepper, and forest floor. On the palate, flavors of raspberry compote, dried herbs, and a touch of baking spice unfold gracefully.
Mouthfeel
Medium-bodied, elegant, and structured. Silky tannins glide through vibrant acidity, finishing long and lifted with red fruit purity and earthy undertones.
Winemaking Notes
Grapes hand-harvested from select hillside blocks of Bien Nacido Estate. Whole-cluster fermentation adds aromatic lift and savory complexity. Aged in French oak barrels (30–40% new) for nuance without overpowering the fruit.
Food Pairing
Perfect with duck breast, roasted salmon, mushroom risotto, or truffle pasta. Its finesse also shines with charcuterie and artisanal cheeses.
Verdict
The Captain captures the pinnacle of Bien Nacido Pinot Noir — terroir-driven, age-worthy, and undeniably elegant. A bottle that blends history, pedigree, and craftsmanship into one unforgettable wine.