# Radio-Coteau Belay Estate Pinot Noir (2022)

- **Producer:** Radio-Coteau
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Pinot Noir
- **Region:** California, United States
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.8%
- **Average price:** €85
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 14–16 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** cherry, raspberry, strawberry, lavender, violet, black pepper, white pepper, liquorice, vanilla, cloves, cedar, leather, dried cranberry

## About this wine

Founded in 2002 by Eric Sussman, Radio-Coteau takes its name from a colloquial northern Rhône expression meaning 'word of mouth' or 'broadcasting from the hillside.' Located near Occidental in the Sonoma Coast AVA, the Belay Estate vineyard sits on a ridgetop 800 feet above sea level and 10 miles from the Pacific Ocean. Planted in ancient seabed Goldridge fine sandy loam soil, the vineyard is farmed using Demeter Certified Biodynamic and Certified Organic practices.

## Interesting facts

- 'Radio-Coteau' is a French expression meaning 'word of mouth' or 'broadcasting from the hillside.'
- The Belay vineyard is planted on Goldridge fine sandy loam, an ancient seabed soil type.
- Founder Eric Sussman trained at historic estates in Bordeaux, Pommard, and Meursault.

## Food pairing

This high-toned, full-structured Pinot Noir features vibrant acidity, refined tannins, and intense fruit concentration. It pairs exceptionally well with rich, savory, and earthy dishes. The wine's elevated acidity cuts through fatty duck and pork, while earthy mushroom preparations complement its coastal forest-floor mineral complexity.

## Wine making process

The 2022 vintage was harvested by hand in cool coastal morning fog between August 19th and August 30th. Vinification featured 100% native yeast fermentation with minimal stem inclusion (0% to 15% whole cluster). The wine was aged for 16 to 17 months in French oak barrels and bottled unfined and unfiltered to retain its natural structure and purity.