94 Points - James Suckling
Savory balance, silky layers and focused acidity.
Drink now or hold on to as many bottles as you can. You will be rewarded.
VINEYARDS
Revered for its impeccable fruit, Hallberg Ranch is 100% dry-farmed vineyard set on rolling hills of the southern edge of the Green Valley in the heart of the Russian River Valley. We source from a few blocks designated to the Cruz Clone and Clone 828 on the far northern edge of the ranch as well as Pommard and Clone 115 on the Southern edge.
VINTAGE NOTES
From start to finish, 2018 was a very steady season, offering weather that was reminiscent of years prior to drought. Higher than average yields and excellent quality brought about a fruitful harvest beginning in late August.
WINEMAKING NOTES
Fermented separately in small open-top fermenters with gentle punch-downs. Maintained at moderate temperatures until dry, basket-pressed, and racked to 50% new French oak for 12 months.
Vintage: 2018
Varietal Composition: 100% Pinot Noir
Vineyard: Hallberg Ranch
Appellation: Russian River Valley
Aging: 50% new French oak for 12 months.
Brix: 24.4?
pH: 3.7
TA: 0.53 g/100ml
Alcohol %: 14.5%
Dark ruby red in the glass, and good swirl on the nose offers generous aromatics of cassis, black cherry and spice. Generously oaked, with crushed blackberry, baked plums, baking spices, and Turkish fig. A supple body, gives way to red and dark fruit like plum, blueberry compote, prune, with anise and light spice on the finish.
92 Points
Lofty aromas of ripe red fruits layered with notes of crushed violets, berry cobbler, cherry and creme brulee leading into crushed blackberry with cassis, mocha, leather, mineral, and baking spice. Its all encompassing and bold mouthfeel are outstanding, as deep tannins dance around the palate, finishing with flavors of blackberry, fig, and pipe tobacco.
Exceptional
Aromas of bright oak, essence of lilac, toasted brioche and sage delight your senses. Flavors are just as complex with hints of soft melted butter, quince, fig, and a touch of lavender that titillate your taste buds. Its delightful texture is balanced by great acidity, leading to a long satisfying finish. Truly a chardonnay lovers Chardonnay.
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