2007 Gary Farrell Hallberg Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., pH 3.43, 527 cases, $50. The 100-acre Hallberg Vineyard was named for its previous owners Don and Marcia Hallberg and today is owned by a group of investors headed by Brice Jones of Emeritus. 58% clone 777, 31% clone 667, 11% Pommard. The grapes were 100% destemmed, 5-day cold soak, inoculated with Assmanshausen yeast for primary fermentation. Aged in 55% new French oak barrels for 12 months. · Moderately dark reddish-violet color. Rich and pleasing aromas of black cherries, dark berries and crusty bread. On the palate there is a mix of Pinot fruits including cherries, black raspberries and plums with a hint of citrus on the finish. Earth, tea and cola notes add interest. The mouthfeel is very smooth, the dry tannins are reserved, and the wine shows admirable Pinot finesse. My only nit is that the wine lacks mid-palate impact and shows minimal finishing persistence, but these features should improve with another year or two in the bottle. Very good (-) Reviewed October 29, 2009

Winery: Gary Farrell Vineyards & Winery
From article: Small Sips of Russian River Valley Pinot