2022 NOCTURO: A NATURAL AMBER WINE INSPIRED BY ANCIENT TRADITIONS
“Let’s talk about orange wine/amber wine. Orange/amber wine is created when white grapes are fermented on the skins in the same fashion we would normally do red wine. This extracts more color than normal white wine fermentation, but most importantly it extracts tannins and a bunch of interesting flavors that we wouldn’t otherwise experience.”
Bel Lago is proud to present Nocturo, a bold and naturally crafted amber wine that bridges ancient winemaking traditions with modern exploration. Originally an experimental release in 2022, Nocturo quickly became a tasting room favorite, delighting guests curious for wines that step off the beaten path.
Nocturo falls squarely in the “natural wine” category, a style celebrated for its authenticity: zero sugar, minimal sulfites, and essentially no additives beyond yeast. Our process honors centuries-old techniques, reminiscent of Georgian winemakers who fermented white berries in underground ceramic tanks for weeks, sometimes months, yielding vibrant, tannic wines with remarkable depth.
“This year we are recreating the Bel Lago Nocturo. Customers seem to be getting more curious than they were 10 years ago. They are excited to try new and unusual wines, and this fits the bill.”
Crafted from 57.5% Riesling, 25% Pinot Grigio, 10% Siegerrebe, and 7.5% Auxerrois, Nocturo is fermented on the skins for three weeks, a method borrowed from red winemaking, applied here to white grapes. Aged for 12 months in neutral oak, this unfiltered, unfined wine is structured yet raw, featuring aromas of orange zest and cherry blossom that lead into a creamy, lingering texture. Its higher tannin concentration ensures evolution and aging potential over the next 5 to 7 years.
“We chose to use the term ‘amber wine’ because this is often how wines are labeled if they come from regions that have been making wine this way for centuries.”
Nocturo pairs effortlessly with soft cheeses like brie and camembert, as well as grilled fish and shellfish, offering a versatile companion for culinary exploration. Beyond food, it offers an experience: a return to roots, a glimpse into the raw and natural artistry of winemaking, and an invitation for the adventurous palate to savor something truly distinct.
Nocturo is more than a wine. It is a story, a revival, and a testament to curiosity.
Nocturo is featured in our Food & Wine Pairing Gift Set, perfect for pre-ordering before the holidays. Explore this unique experience and give the gift of Bel Lago wines paired with culinary inspiration.
