The Russian River Valley, and the Walter Hansel Winery, need no introduction—not if you’re a serious Pinot Noir drinker, and especially not if you’re a sommelier, as there is no more perfect representation of Russian River Valley terroir at this price. And make no mistake, this is not an “economy of scale” wine; it is, in fact, an extremely rare (about 750 cases produced in a generous year) single-vineyard bottling mostly swallowed up by the Hansel mailing list and restaurant buyers. 

As always, the oak is well-managed in this ’offering, adding a subtle note of sandalwood spice to a fresh, upright, highly perfumed glass of Pinot Noir. It displays a deep ruby core moving to magenta/pink at the rim, with concentrated aromas of black cherry, black and red raspberry, violet and rose petals, wild herbs, turned earth, and baking spices. It is medium-plus in body, juicy and immediately satisfying but also blessed with something we consider crucial in Pinot Noir: tension. It’s a nimble, delicious red with some palpable minerality and great freshness for food.