95 Points - James Suckling
Enjoy now or cellar as many as you can.
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
The culmination of factors from another drought year in California surprised us with a beautiful vintage. An unseasonably dry and mild winter, which led to an early spring, forced the vines into bud break during peak frost season. A relatively warm, but even summer, resulted in early harvest dates, with lower-than average yields.
WINEMAKING NOTES
Fermented separately in small open-top fermenters with gentle punch-downs. Maintained at moderate temperatures until dry, basket-pressed, and racked to 30% new French oak for 12 months.
Vintage: 2021
Varietal Composition: 100% Pinot Noir
Vineyard: Hallberg Ranch
Appellation: Russian River Valley
Aging: 30% new French oak for 12 months.
Brix: 24.3˚
pH: 3.47
TA: 5.7 g/L
Alcohol %: 14.3%
94 Points
A classic expression of coastal influenced Chardonnay with aromas of honey, apple chutney, lime blossom, and gentle Indian spice box undertones. A big juicy entry on the palate, showing a silky texture with excellent tension and structure, ending with a complex, layered finish.
92 Points
Inviting aromas of ripe cherry, strawberry, and pomegranate. The palate unfolds with layered flavors of black cherry, raspberry cordial, vanilla bean and spice, where focused tannins envelop, leading to a rich red fruit finish with blue fruit undertones.
93 Points
Big, forward bouquet with pear, golden apple, apple blossom, and dried orange peel. Loads of lime and grapefruit on the palate, maintaining balanced acidity and freshness. Subtle notes of honey and white flowers add depth to this lively wine.
Gold Medal
Generously packed with black cherry, cola, cassis, and plum that all intermingle together in a creamy, velvety texture with great layering, finishing with delightful notes of oak and spice. Persistent, well-defined structure, wonderfully balanced.
Gold Medal
Light pink in color with aromas of watermelon, cranberry, orange rind, and fresh spring flowers that leap from the glass. The palate offers more peach, strawberry, and melon, with an intriguing note of rose and hibiscus. It's crisp with just the perfect hint of red fruit, and delicate whisper of strawberry that gives goosebumps.
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