Belharra Wines, Alder Springs Vineyard, Pinot Noir, Mendocino 2018

Accessible only by boat or jet-ski, Belharra is an epic rock-reef break that only raises its head a handful of times a year -- but what a day it is when it does. Belharra (literally meaning “grass” or “seaweed” in the Basque language) is a relatively recent discovery in the big wave surfing world. You may have come across it in the surf film “The Billabong Odyssey” back in 2003 and since then it has grown in popularity to be considered one of the best tow-in only surf spots in Europe. Waves start breaking at 12 feet, but can reach heights of 60 feet or more. The power, speed and shear brute force of the waves here have the pros and adrenaline junkies lining up to take it on!

Winemakers Anne Fogerty and Camille Gaio have definitely landed their perfect wave with this charming brand they call Belharra. The pair bring an eclectic background of skills to the table—Anne’s deep familiarity with the vineyard sources coupled with Camille’s sommelier’s palate from years of working in restaurants. And both have had the fortunate opportunity to receive mentorships from some of Napa’s most respected winemakers. By day, Anne is Thomas Brown’s assistant winemaker, working with Thomas on several of his celebrated wines like Schrader, Outpost and Rivers-Marie to name a few, while Camille assists the one and only Julien Fayard, overseeing projects such as Azur, Purlieu, Le Pich and many more. And aside from making awesome wines, they are two of the most passionate, hardworking ladies we know!

We’ve gotten our hands on the very first edition of Pinot from this brand! The fruit is sourced from the legendary Alder Springs vineyard in Mendocino. It was aged for 11 months in 25% new French oak, and the ladies opted for zero stem inclusion. The resulting wine has a brilliant ruby-red core. The nose shows fresh hawthorn fruit and peony flower, and the palate has mouth-coating viscosity without being too heavy. Vibrant red fruit intensifies the contrast of pine and mossy notes. The finish is all juicy red fruit like raspberry and ripe cherry. No doubt this will impress alongside a plate of grilled vegetables this summer! 147 cases produced. 13.8% ABV.