2016 Hirsch Pinot Noir San Andreas Fault
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Tasting notes
Such a pretty style of Pinot, understated elegance in a glass. There is a subtle sandalwood and cranberry character that is supported by forest fruits. Very lively acidity (perhaps I might like just a tiny bit more fruit intensity?) and it finishes long and fine. (AC)
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Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
Alistair Cooper MW, jancisrobinson.com
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Hirsch's Pinot Noir Estate San Andreas Fault is absolutely gorgeous in 2016. The flavors are bold, punchy and super-expressive. More importantly, I see more depth and complexity than in the past. Black cherry, plum, lavender and spice all race out of the glass. Pliant, deep and inviting, the 2016 is arrestingly beautiful. The decision to bottle early, with 11 months in oak as opposed to 18-20 as was previously the norm, paid off big time.
Medium ruby colored, the 2016 Pinot Noir San Andreas Fault is youthfully shy on the nose, giving up strawberry and raspberry preserves, bergamot, amaro, rose petals, charcuterie and pipe tobacco. The light to medium-bodied palate offers nuanced red fruits with firm, grainy tannins, finishing on a bitters note. 3,488 cases produced.
Hirsch’s original wine. Not called this initially. It contains fruit from 30 of their 60 parcels. This flagship wine is their signature wine with 3,000 cases made (unusual volume). The Fault is half a mile from Hirsch. First complete vintage with the owner of Anthill Farms. Picked earlier from 2009. Fine. Pale ruby. Bone dry and refined. Lots of depth there. Miles from sweet and jammy. Fine tannins. (JR)