Walter Hansel 2018 “Estate” Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley – 94 Points

Robert Parker 94 Points: “The 2018 Pinot Noir Estate, aged in 60% new François Frères barrels, has a medium ruby color and aromas of cured meats, red and black cherries, graphite, dried earth and tobacco leaves. The medium-bodied, satiny palate explodes with concentrated earth- and spice-laced fruits, gently grainy, super fresh and finishing very long and uplifted.”

Tasting Notes: The 2018 Pinot Noir The Estate Vineyard is bright, floral and super-expressive.  Rose petal, lavender, red/purplish berry fruit and spice open up in a mid-weight nuanced Pinot loaded with personality.  The Estate has so much character.  Readers will find an understated, beautifully restrained Russian River Pinot.  Floral notes reaper on the finish, adding lift.  This is such a pretty wine.