2007 Hanzell Sonoma Valley Pinot Noir

14.4% alc., pH 3.70, TA 0.56, 1,361 cases. Dry, cool spring followed by early July heat spike to 100ºF four days in a row. Rest of summer was sunny and warm with morning fog. Sessions, Benny’s and de Brye vineyards. Aged 18 months in 50% new Sirugue oak barrels. · Moderately dark reddish-purple color in the glass. Uplifting aromatics with scents of black cherry, blackberry, blueberry, Asian 5-spice and ash. A big, concentrated wine with a plush core of smoky, tarry black cherry, cassis and spice flavors, wrapped in muscular tannins. Still reserved and opens reluctantly in the glass. Noticeably smooth and velvety on the palate, finishing with slight tannic astringency and a touch of heat. Hold. Score: 90. Reviewed July 21, 2013

Winery: Hanzell Vineyards
From article: Hanzell: Still Quality, Character and Reverence After 50 Years