2004 Walter Hansel Winery Pinot Noir The North Slope - USA, California, Sonoma County, Russian River Valley (3/14/2007) Dark ruby color. Nose of rose petals, plum, and raspberry, and citrus notes. Palate is dominated by red fruit flavors and shows a little orange zest. Finish has very nice length. Very good wine without a doubt, but this may be a little too fruit driven for my taste. I am missing the earth and fall-like flavors I am used to in Stephen's wines. This seems almost a little too clean and maybe even a little candied. Those that like laser-focused fruit will love this wine. For me, it's not quite up to par with other wines, especially from the 2002 and 2003 vintages. (89 pts.)
I wish I would have read your response before dinner. I didn't decant, and the wine really started to sing at about an hour and a half in the bottle. Regardless, I thought it was a fantastic wine....
Romeo and Juliet are together in eternity....
Posts: 4554 | Location: Elk Grove, CA, USA | Registered: Dec 06, 2003
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