The name Belle Cousine is a reference to Pamela Fairbanks de Villaine, Larry Hyde’s lovely cousin who is the wife of Aubert de Villaine of Burgundy. It is Pamela who brings these visionary viticultural families from Burgundy and the Carneros region of Napa Valley together to make wines that express the character of place, with that rare minerality so dear to the Burgundian palate.

Entering the third year of a drought, the 2009 winter was dry at Hyde Vineyard until unexpected rains in early spring. Budbreak was later than usual, avoiding any risk of frost damage; persistently mild weather created a long, slow ripening vintage leading to wines of balance and deft concentration.

A pure and intense nose displays fresh blueberry, spices and crushed stone aromas. The minerality is striking in harmony with soft, elegant tannins. On the palate, the wine is juxtaposed with a restrained power typical of Hyde Vineyard Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Red and blue fruit are carried by freshness to a long, delicate finale. A perfect table addition, it will reward for 15 to 20 years to come.