2010 Pinot Noir Hyde Vineyard

A rich, voluminous wine, the 2010 Pinot Noir Hyde Vineyard emerges from the glass with juicy dark cherries, sage, tobacco and a host of savory notes. There are elements of wildness from the late, cool growing season that add complexity. A rich, creamy finish rounds things out very nicely. The style is a bit explosive and in your face, but it all works. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2020. It is always fascinating to sit down with Paul Hobbs and his winemaker Megan Baccitich, as these Chardonnays and Pinots run the gamut of styles, clones and sites in Sonoma. According to Hobbs, the 2010 harvest was two weeks later than normal, while 2011 was three weeks later than normal! One of the other main differences is that temperatures increased toward the end of 2010, but stayed very much on the cool side in 2011. My impression is that when all is said and done, vintage 2011 will turn out to be superior to 2010 for this range. As always, the Hobbs house style does a very nice job of capturing both textural richness and plenty of site specificity. Tel. (707) 824-9879

Vivid ruby. Heady aromas of red and dark berry preserves, potpourri and sandalwood, with a bright mineral topnote and slow-mounting smokiness. Sappy, penetrating black raspberry and candied cherry flavors stain the palate, showing a silky, seamless texture. Spice and floral pastille notes carry through a very long, sweet, gently tannic finish.

The 2010 Pinot Noir Hyde Vineyard shows considerable aromatic lift, brightness and focus. Freshly cut flowers, spices and licorice are some of the notes that emerge from this absolutely beautiful, delineated wine. The 2010 comes across as more refined, subtle and elegant than the decidedly muscular 2009. Hobbs used 6% whole bunches here.