Cattleya Pinot Noir Belly of the Whale 2023

98 Points | CWA
“Deep and sultry in tone, the 2023 Belly of the Whale opens with layered aromatics of dark plum, black cherry, and ripe berry flesh, with hints of cola and red berry seed. On the palate, it is notably silky and precise and lifted by bright acidity that offers poise and energy. Red apple skin and vibrant cherry notes thread through the mid-palate, adding clarity and tension without pushing the wine into a rich or heavy style. The finish is long, elegant, and persistent.” - California Wine Advisors

97 Points | TWP
“Medium to deep ruby-purple colored, the 2023 Belly of the Whale Pinot Noir pops with bold notes of black cherries and boysenberries, leading to hints of charcoal, bay leaves, and violets. Full-bodied, the palate has a fine-grained texture and a lively line, finishing long and perfumed.” - Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW, The Wine Palate

96 Points | JD
“The 2023 Pinot Noir Belly Of The Whale is highly expressive of its more exposed position on the Sonoma Coast. It leads with more mineral and savory-inflected aromatics on the nose, with deep and umami notes of black cherries, dark stones, nori, pine, and floral perfume. The palate is more red-fruited and brings more raspberry fruit to the fore, with a mouthwatering spine of acidity and a salty, tension-driven feel. It will benefit from another year or so in bottle and drink its best over the coming 12-15 years.” - Jeb Dunnuck