Hartford Family Winery

Articles About Hartford Family Winery

Reviewed Wines

2018 Hartford Court Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., $25 (Wine Slash). Vinted and bottled by Hartford Family winery, Santa Rosa, CA. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Deep aromas of black cherry and floral perfume. Mid-weight flavors of boysenberry and black raspberry create intense mid-palate joy and finishing with modest power. Sleek and polished, with subtle oak enhancement. Alcohol is well-hidden. Score: 90. Reviewed November 12, 2020 ARTICLE »

2018 Hartford Court Hailey’s Block Green Valley of Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.8% alc., 240 cases, $70. This block, planted in 1996 to Dijon clones, lies within Arrendell Vineyard. · Dark garnet color in the glass. Brooding aromas of blackberry jam, ripest cherry, dark red rose petal, earthy flora and vanilla. Blackfruited in a mid-weight-plus style with a good compliment of spice. Very gutsy with plenty of sap but everything in focus and balance. More giving when tasted several hours later from a previously opened bottle. Decant if you must drink now. Score: 92. Reviewed August 22, 2021 ARTICLE »

2017 Hartford Court Fiddlestix Vineyard Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir

14.8% alc., 195 cases, $70. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Seductive aromas of Bing cherry and oak spice. Light to mid-weight in richness, featuring flavors of black cherry, black raspberry and a hint of oak spice. Very fine grain tannins and upbeat acidity compliment the fruit core. Plenty of gentle goodness in a glamorous wine that exudes class. Score: 93. Reviewed September 19, 2021 ARTICLE »

2017 Hartford Court Arrendell Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.4% alc., pH 3.53, TA 0.66, 217 cases, $100. Aged 16 months in French oak barrels, 44% new. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Dark garnet color in the glass. The nose opens slowly to reveal enticing aromas of blackberry, blueberry-pomegranate, earthy flora and a hint of oak. A flood of blue and black fruits envelope the palate in a mid-weight plus style.The layers of fruit saturate the taste buds, creating a magnetic attraction, yet the wine is not cloying or sweet. There is admirable harmony with a favorable compliment of oak. The fruit really hangs on through the long, long finish that is symbolic of a special wine. Score: 94. Reviewed August 27, 2020 ARTICLE »

2017 Hartford Court Arrendell Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.4% alc., 217 cases, $100. Aged 16 months in 44% new French oak barrels. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Dark garnet color in the glass. The nose opens slowly to reveal enticing aromas of blackberry, blueberry-pomegranate, earthy fora and a hint of oak. A flood of blue and black fruits envelope the palate in a mid-weight plus stye. The layers of fruit saturate the taste buds, creating a magnetic attraction, yet the wine is not cloying or sweet. There is welcome harmony with a favorable compliment of oak. The fruit really hangs on through he long, long finish that is symbolic of a special wine. Reviewed August 27, 2020. Score: 94. Reviewed August 22, 2021 ARTICLE »

2015 Hartford Court Russian River Valley Pinot Noir Rosé

14.1% alc., pH 3.2, 331 cases, $30. Released March 2016. Estate grapes (primarily Fog Dance Vineyard) harvested at 22.8º Brix, whole cluster pressed, tank fermented with 20% of wine finished in neutral oak barrels. · Very light pinkish orange in the glass. Aromas of strawberry and pink grapefruit with flavors echoing the nose with added notes of blood orange and orange peel. Bright with a dry finish. Jeff says, “Everybody wants it,” and I understand why. Score: 90. Reviewed June 19, 2016 ARTICLE »

2015 Hartford Court Russian River Valley Rosé of Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., pH 3.16, 331 cases, $30. Harvested from estate grapes ( primarily Fog Dance Vineyard) at 22.8º Brix. Whole cluster pressed, tank fermented with 20% of the wine finishing ferment in neutral barrels. · Very light pinkish orange color in the glass. Aromas of fresh strawberry and pink grapefruit are echoed on the palate with additional notes of blood orange and orange peel, finishing bright, clean and dry. Score: 90. Reviewed May 6, 2016 ARTICLE »

2014 Hartford Court Pinot Noir Russian River Valley Rosé

pH 3.25, 240 cases, $28. Released March 15, 2015. Harvested from Fog Dance Vineyard as a rosé, tank fermented, finished in neutral oak. · Light pink color in the glass. Aromas of strawberry, cherry and rose petal echoed on the palate with an added hint of spice. Fresh and vibrant, with good acidity, finishing dry. Score: 88. Reviewed May 4, 2015 ARTICLE »

2014 Hartford Court Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., 5,500 cases, $38. Released May 2016. A blend of all single vineyard estate properties in the Russian River Valley and five grower vineyards. Aged 10 months in French oak barrels, 33% new. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Bright aromas of Bing cherry lead to a mid weight plus styled wine that is lusciously endowed with ripe black cherry fruit flavor. Fruit driven and balanced, but not complex. Score: 89. Reviewed June 19, 2016 ARTICLE »

2014 Hartford Court Land’s Edge Vineyards Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.9% alc., pH 3.71, TA 0.55, 2,050 cases, $50. Released January 2016. Sourced from Far Coast and Seascape vineyards located within four miles of the Pacific Ocean. Uninoculated. Aged 10 months in French oak barrels, 32% new. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Very expressive and easy going, with aromas and flavors of cherry and boysenberry. Juicy, with polished tannins and soothing harmony. Score: 91. Reviewed June 19, 2016 ARTICLE »

2013 Hartford Court Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

$38. Released January 2015. A blend of grapes from single vineyard properties and three grower vineyards in the Russian River Valley. Aged 10 months in 100% French oak barrels, 32% new. Unfined and unfiltered. · Light cherry red color in the glass. Cherry is the featured fruit in this light to mid weight wine, with added notes of cranberry, cola and oak seasoning. Forward and easy to drink with a good cut of acid on the bright finish. Score: 87-88. Reviewed May 4, 2015 ARTICLE »

2013 Hartford Court Stone Côte Vineyard Sonoma Coast Chardonnay

14.2% alc., 594 cases, $60. Released January 2016. This wine is crafted from Old Wente and UCD clones planted in a block within the Durell Vineyard. The site is an ancient uplifted river bed. Native yeast fermentation. Barrel fermented and aged in 100% French oak barrels, 34% new and 38% one-year-old. Bottled unfined and unfiltered after 15 months of barrel age. · Light golden yellow color in the glass. Slightly reductive nose offers aromas of baked apple, pear, peach, toasted brioche and nutty oak. Slightly creamy in the mouth, with plump flavors of yellow peach and pear, ending with a swath of acidity. Score: 92. Reviewed June 19, 2016 ARTICLE »

2013 Hartford Court Fog Dance Vineyard Green Valley of Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.6% alc., pH 3.66, TA 0.59, 408 cases, $63. Released January 2016. Clones 667 and 777. Aged 17 months in French oak barrels, 37% new. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately dark reddish purple hue in the glass. Thiol-driven aromas of dark red and black fruits with a modest oak overlay. Impressive mid palate presence with a luscious finish featuring dark red and black fruits framed by firm but not muscular tannins. Score: 92. Reviewed June 19, 2016 ARTICLE »

2013 Hartford Court Marin County Pinot Noir

13.8% alc., 264 cases, pH 3.71, TA 0.55, $63. Released January 2016. Sourced from two grower vineyards, primarily Corda Vineyard. Aged 16 months in French oak barrels, 31% new. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. The nose leads with attractive scents of dark berries, black cherry, Asian 5-spice and a touch of smoke. Very satisfying, with dusty tannins, a savory thread and a finish offering generous plum and blackberry aromatic goodness. Score: 91. Reviewed June 19, 2016 ARTICLE »

2013 Hartford Court Hailey’s Block Green Valley of Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., pH 3.48, TA 0.63, 192 cases, $65. Released January 2016. A block within the Arrendell Vineyard, named after Don and Jennifer Hartford’s daughter. Clones 114, 667, 777 and Pommard planted in 1996. Native yeast fermentation. Aged 16 months in French oak barrels, 28% new. Bottled Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. The nose is very special, offering hi-tone aromas of an array of purple fruits and spice. A little tight, but hinting at greatness, with an attack of purple and black fruits that attracts attention, continuing through a very generous finish. A sumptuous accent of spice and savory herbs adds nuance. Very seductive, with a silky smooth mouthfeel. Score: 94. Reviewed June 19, 2016 ARTICLE »

2013 Hartford Court MacLean’s Block Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.8% alc., pH 3.62, TA 0.58, 336 cases, $65. Released January 2016. Sourced from an estate vineyard east of the town of Occidental. Some whole cluster. Native yeast fermentation. Aged 17 months in French oak barrels, 36% new. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Assertive ripe black fruit aromas with added scents of pine and earthy flora. Bold, long and intense, with firm but harmonious tannins. Balance predicts age ability. Score: 91. Reviewed June 19, 2016 ARTICLE »

2013 Hartford Court Muldune Trail Anderson Valley Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., 240 cases, $65. Released January 2016. This vineyard is located on a 1,600-foot ridge on the road to Ukiah and was planted about ten years ago. Cold nights and very rocky soils. Clones 115 and 777. Aged 16 months in French oak barrels, 31% new. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. A highly concentrated wine replete with sappy blackberry and black currant flavors accented with an iron-toned minerality. Angular tannins support the fruit load nicely. Score: 91. Reviewed June 19, 2016 ARTICLE »

2013 Hartford Court Seascape Vineyard Sonoma Coast Chardonnay

14.2% alc., 346 cases, $65. Released January 2016. A Spring Mountain chardonnay selection. A cold and windy site in the direct path of the Petaluma Wind Gap. Native yeast fermentation, barrel fermented (very slow fermentation and malolactic fermentation). Aged 15 months in 100% French oak barrels, 47% new, and bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Darker golden color in the glass. Great scents of apple skin, moss, and citrus. Delicious flavors of lemon-lime and peach framed by bright acidity, expansive on the viscous palate, building in intensity through a glorious finish. The finish is uncommonly persistent for a Chardonnay. Score: 94. Reviewed June 19, 2016 ARTICLE »

2013 Hartford Court Sevens Bench Vineyard Carneros Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., pH 3.71, TA 0.62, 192 cases, $65. Released January 2016. This high-density vineyard was replanted in 2004-2005 by Jeff Stewart. The vineyard is on eroded and rocky soils. The name of the vineyard derives from the clones planted: Dijon 777 and UCD 37 (Mt. Eden). Native yeast fermentation. Aged 16 months in French oak barrels, 21% new. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Redder fruits are featured on the nose and palate with an earthy, grilled mushroom undertone. Modest in weight with balanced tannins and a sweet cherry finish that offers some length. This wine aims to please now. Score: 92. Reviewed June 19, 2016 ARTICLE »

2013 Hartford Court Velvet Sisters Anderson Valley Pinot Noir

14.9% alc., pH 3.67, TA 0.64, 480 cases, $65. Released January 2016. Sourced from a block within an estate vineyard located at the northern “deep end” of Anderson Valley planted to Dijon 115, 667 and 777, and Pommard clones. Uninoculated. Aged 16 months in French oak barrels, 37% new. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. A complex wine of great interest, with aromas of cherry, berry, spice box and nutty oak, and a mid weight plus core of well-spiced red fruits. A seductive offering with a silky mouthfeel. Score: 93. Reviewed June 19, 2016 ARTICLE »

2013 Hartford Court Far Coast Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.8% alc., 408 cases, $70. Released January 2016. Sourced from a vineyard located on a ridge at 900 to 1200 feet elevation north of Fort Ross on the Sonoma Coast. Clones 667, 777 and Pommard. Some Pommard fermented whole cluster. Aged 17 months in French oak barrels, 44% new. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Dark reddish purple color in the glass. Aromas of peat and mulch with shy fruits on the nose. The hedonistic fruit in this well endowed wine is more expressive on the palate, offering waves of boysenberry and blackberry flavors accented with spice, dark chocolate and beef. Still somewhat primary, and almost overwhelming in intensity, with an overlay of oak and youthful tannins that need more time to integrate. Score: 92. Reviewed June 19, 2016 ARTICLE »

2013 Hartford Court Jennifer’s Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.6% alc., pH 3.66, TA 0.57, 293 cases, $70. Released January 2016. Sourced from grower vineyards south of Sebastopol in the Petaluma Wind Gap. A very cool site that is windy and foggy, ripening late in the season. Grapes are thick skinned and high in acidity. Clone 23. Native yeast fermentation. Aged 17 months in French oak barrels, 39% new. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Dark reddish purple color in the glass. Embracing aromas of black cherry and dark chocolate lead to a full-bodied wine balanced with muscular tannins and bright acidity. Flavors of anise and dried herbs augment the black cherry core. This wine will certainly improve with more time in bottle and prove to have age ability, but it is hard to resist now. Score: 93. Reviewed June 19, 2016 ARTICLE »

2013 Hartford Court Seascape Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.4% alc., 360 cases, $70. Released January 2016. Grapes are from a 26-acre estate vineyard planted to clones 114, 777 and 115. It is located on a panoramic ridge top west of the town of Occidental facing Bodega Bay and the Pacific Ocean, bordering Coastlands Vineyard. Very cold with harvest delayed in some years to November. Yields 2 tons per acre. Aged 16 months in French oak barrels, 38% new. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Moderate reddish purple hue in the glass. Oak-dusted dark red cherry and berry fruits are featured with complimentary notes of herbs and oakdriven vanillin, toast and nuts. Smoothly texture and juicy with fine-grain tannins and a determined finish. Score: 92. Reviewed June 19, 2016 ARTICLE »

2013 Hartford Court Arrendell Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

15.2% alc., pH 3.55, TA 0.62, 288 cases, $100. Released January 2016. The crown jewel in the Hartford Court lineup from a vineyard planted in 1975 to Martini clone. Wood from this vineyard has been sent to UCD to get a virus-free field selection version. The vineyard struggles to ripen less than one ton per acre by Halloween in most years. It is one of the coldest sites in the Russian River Valley and has been called the “snowshoe vineyard” because in wet years, workers need to wear snowshoes to get through the muddy rows of vines. Native yeast fermentation. Aged 17 months in French oak barrels, 44% new. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. The nose is flat out gorgeous filled with promising aromas of boysenberry and blackberry preserves with a wild, organic tone. Power to thrill, with a spellbinding core of dark fruits that envelope the palate and linger on the prodigious finish. Despite the fruit heft, the wine is welcoming with refined tannins, juicy acidity and a silky demeanor. A highly unique wine of uncommon provenance. Score: 96. Reviewed June 19, 2016 ARTICLE »

2012 Hartford Court Land’s Edge Vineyards Estate Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., pH 3.71, TA 0.55, 2,295 cases, $50. 2013 vintage released January 2015. Sourced from vineyards (75% Far Coast Vineyard and 25% Seascape Vineyard) located in the far western edge of the Sonoma Coast that are driven by maritime influence. Clones 667, 777, 115, Pommard and Swan. Aged 10 months in 100% French oak barrels, 28% new. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. An intensely flavored mid weight plus macho wine featuring aromas and flavors of black cherry, black raspberry, mocha, and savory herbs. Polished tannins make for very forward drink ability. A “ribeye wine.” Score: 92-93. Reviewed May 4, 2015 ARTICLE »

2012 Hartford Court Fog Dance Estate Green Valley of Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.7% alc., pH 3.76, TA 0.54, 315 cases, $65. Released January 2015. Grapes are from an organically farmed, estate vineyard planted in 1996 to Dijon 667, 777 and 115. The bottling is named for the dance performed by the Pacific fog which drifts through the vineyard and back again to the sea each day. Aged 17 months in 100% French oak barrels, 38% new. Unfined and unfiltered. · Medium reddish purple hue in the glass. Very slight reduction. Riper fruit aromas featuring spiced plum, boysenberry and black cherry. Welcome charge of black cherry and purple berry fruits on entry with an underlying riff of baking spices and citrus. Nicely integrated acidity, but the slightly grainy tannins need more time to moderate. Score: 90. Reviewed May 4, 2015 ARTICLE »

2012 Hartford Court Hailey’s Block Estate Green Valley of Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.6% alc., pH 3.66, TA 0.55, $65. Released January 2015. Sourced from a block within Arrendell Vineyard that is named after Don and Jennifer Hartford’s daughter, Hailey. The block was planted in 1996 to Dijon 114 and 777 when Hailey was six years old. The site is probably the coldest spot in the Green Valley of Russian River Valley. Aged 17 months in 100% French oak barrels, 44% new. · Moderate dark reddish purple color in the glass. Intoxicating aromas of ripe strawberries, black cherries and black raspberries with hints of spice and violet. Mid weight plus flavors of black cherry, black raspberry and cassis with a well-proportioned backbone of acid and tannin. A highly enjoyable wine of great character. Score: 94. Reviewed May 4, 2015 ARTICLE »

2012 Hartford Court MacLean’s Block Estate Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.6% alc., pH 3.59, TA 0.54, 337 cases, $65. Released January 2015. Named after Don and Jennifer Hartford’s son, MacLean. The 20-acre vineyard is nestled near redwood groves near the town of Occidental. Organically and biodynamically farmed Dijon 667 and 777 clones planted in Goldridge sandy loam soil. Afted 16 months in 100% French oak barrels, 44% new. · A very curious and interesting wine. Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Aromas of pine and forest floor lead to a delicious mid weight core of black cherry and black raspberry fruits accented with notes of conifer, spice and mocha. The tannins are very fine, and there is a lively grip of acid on the finish. As Jeff points out, in this wine you get a real sense of the forest that surrounds this vineyard. Score: 92. Reviewed May 4, 2015 ARTICLE »

2012 Hartford Court Seascape Vineyard Sonoma Coast Chardonnay

13.8% alc., pH 3.42, TA 0.65, 330 cases, $65. From a 6-acre vineyard west of the town of Occidental. Bordered by the well known Coastlands Vineyard. Extremely cold spot with no ridge between the vineyard and the ocean. Yield 2 tons per acre. Aged in French oak barrels, 30% new. Unfined and unfiltered. · Light golden yellow color in the glass. Plenty of lemon zest and floral goodness on the nose. Lovely flavors of lemon and blood orange, infused with saline minerality. Very crisp and vibrant, with a complimentary touch of oak in the background. The wine grows on you and improves over time in the glass. The bracing acidity on the finish makes this an ideal food partner. Score: 93. Reviewed June 14, 2015 ARTICLE »

2012 Hartford Court Sevens Bench Vineyard Estate Carneros Pinot Noir

15.0% alc., pH 3.77, TA 0.57, 163 cases, $65. Release September 2015. The name Sevens Bench comes from the two clones planted on the winery’s block: 37 (Mt Eden) and Dijon 777. First release from this vineyard since 2009. Some whole cluster. Aged 17 months in 100% French oak barrels, 25% new. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Lovely aromas of peppery cherry, dark rose and earthy loam. The mid weight black cherry core is framed by firm tannins and accented with a compliment of oak. Earthy and savory, with soft acidity, and a remarkably intense and long finish. Will benefit from more time in bottle. Score: 91-92. Reviewed May 4, 2015 ARTICLE »

2012 Hartford Court Velvet Sisters Estate Anderson Valley Pinot Noir

14.8% alc., pH 3.72, TA 0.56, 397 cases, $65. Released January 2015. The “Velvet Sisters” are local historical figures who in Boontling lore became known for wearing plush velvet dresses. The grapes are sourced from blocks within Falk Vineyard planted to Dijon 115, 667 and 777, and Pommard selections. Native and cultured yeasts. Aged 17 months in 100% French oak barrels, 32% new. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Very enticing aromas of alpine strawberry, cherry, wood spice and sous-bois. Highly satisfying, “pretty” core of cherry fruit with a flowery underpinning. The oak is well-integrated, the fine-grain tannins provide support, and the wine finishes with a burst of juicy, black cherry fruit which hangs on for dear life. Score: 92-93. Reviewed May 4, 2015 ARTICLE »

2012 Hartford Court Jennifer’s Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.6% alc., pH 3.55, TA 0.57, 341 cases, $70. Released January 2015. Named in honor of coproprietor Jennifer Hartford. Sourced from a vineyard in a windy and very cool site in the Sebastopol Hills planted primarily to clone 23 that is known for very small berries, low yields and a high skin-to-pulp ratio. Aged 16 months in 100% French oak barrels, 46% new. Unfined and unfiltered. · Dark reddish purple hue in the glass. Highly expressive nose that leads with aromas of dark berries, tea and anise. Highly structured and robust, with flavors of blackberry, ollaliberry and English tea. Concentrated, but elevated with juicy acidity, and offering a suave finish of noticeable intensity. Score: 93. Reviewed May 4, 2015 ARTICLE »

2012 Hartford Court Marin County Pinot Noir

alc., pH 3.72, TA 0.55, 373 cases, $70. Released January 2015. Aged 17 months in 100% French oak barrels, 32% new. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Aromas of forest and spice lead to a lighter weight wine featuring purple berry flavors with a hint of citrus in the background. Fresh, with supple tannins, and a high-strung finish. Score: 90. Reviewed May 4, 2015 ARTICLE »

2012 Hartford Court Seascape Vineyard Estate Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.4% alc., pH 3.52, TA 0.59, 327 cases, $70. Released January 2015. A 6-acre vineyard on a ridge top west of the town of Occidental, bordering the well-known Coastlands Vineyard. A very cold site, with grapes picked often in November. Primarily Dijon 777, 114 and 115. Average yields 1 ton-per-acre. Aged 16 months in 100% French oak barrels, 28% new. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Very savory on the nose with scents of conifer, sous-bois, black cherry and a hint of oak. Striking attack of vivid cherry fruit with many added nuances including spices particularly clove, earth and conifer. The tannins are very silky, and the wine finishes with good brightness. Score: 92. Reviewed May 4, 2015 ARTICLE »

2012 Hartford Court Arrendell Vineyard Estate Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.8% alc., pH 3.50, TA 0.59, 298 cases, $90. Released January 2015. This low-lying vineyard sits in a very cold meso-climate that allows full expression of the terroir. The old vines were planted in 1975 and struggle to ripen a 1 ton-per-acre fruit load of heirloom selections. Aged 14 months in 100% new French oak barrels, 45% new. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. A wonderful array of fresh scents greet the drinker including black cherry, kirsch, cassis, sousbois and violets. Sappy and robust, with intense layers of flavor that unfold on the palate in stages to reveal notes of boysenberry, cassis, plum reduction sauce, and earthy herbs. Very smoothly textured with balanced tannins and a lingering finish. A special wine of uncommon personality and breeding. Score: 95. Reviewed May 4, 2015 ARTICLE »

2011 Hartford Court Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., $N/A. · Moderate reddish-purple color in the glass. Very aromatic with scents of cherries, raspberries, cola, spice and biscuit. Rich, full-bodied cherry core with a hint of cola. Very soft, almost mushy on the palate. Good. Reviewed April 13, 2013 ARTICLE »

2011 Hartford Court Velvet Sisters Anderson Valley Pinot Noir

14.6% alc., 385 cases, $65. Estate vineyard. Name comes from a Boontling story about two sisters who were known for dressing in velvet. · Moderate reddish purple hue in the glass. Unfined and unfiltered. Intoxicating aromas of black cherry, dark raspberry coulis and vanilla oak. Very tasty black cherry core complimented by notes of baking spice and vanilla. Soft on the mid palate and easy to like, with admirable balance and a bright finish. Score: 91. Reviewed May 15, 2014 ARTICLE »

2011 Hartford Court Arrendell Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., 235 cases, $90. This iconic vineyard located in a very cool part of the Russian River Valley was planted in 1975. Unfined and unfiltered. · Dark violet color in the glass. Complex aromas and flavors featuring plum, boysenberry, black raspberry, black cherry, tea leaves, tobacco and herbs. Striking fruit intensity and a long, chewy finish with a substantial tannic backbone for aging. This wine has a certain “glow.” Score: 92. Reviewed May 15, 2014 ARTICLE »

2010 Hartford Court Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

3,000 cases. An entry level wine but a solid one. · Very aromatic, displaying scents of fresh berries and sappy cherries. Soft and gentle on the palate with lighter weight flavors of red cherries and berries with a good cut of citrus-driven acidity on the finish. Good (+). Reviewed April 4, 2012 ARTICLE »

2010 Hartford Court Russian River Valley Chardonnay

$28. A solid entry level wine sourced from several estate and non-estate vineyards. Many of vineyards are 15 to 20 years old. Inaugural vintage for this bottling. · Very light straw color in the glass. Fresh aromas of green apples and spice. Light on the palate with appealing flavors of baked apple and roasted nuts. An easy drinker and great value. Good. Reviewed April 4, 2012 ARTICLE »

2010 Hartford Court Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.6% alc., $30. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Aromas of Bing cherry tart, spice and fennel with some pungency showing up. Moderately rich and deep cherry flavor with hints of cola and spice, wrapped in gentle tannins. An easy user-friendly drinker. Decent (+). Reviewed June 24, 2012 ARTICLE »

2010 Hartford Court MacLean’s Block Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.8% alc., $60. From a 14-yearold vineyard near Occidental planted in Goldridge soil. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderate reddish-purple color in the glass. Very fruity nose featuring dark cherry pie glaze. Dense, super ripe fruit profile with notes of raisin and currant. Somewhat brooding and rustic with firm tannins. Decent. Reviewed April 13, 2013 ARTICLE »

2009 Hartford Court Land’s Edge Vineyards Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

15.4% alc., ph 3.59, TA 0.55, 1,637 cases, $45. Unreleased. Primarily from the estate Far Coast Vineyard. Native yeast fermentations. Aged 15 months in 45% new French oak barrels. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately dark reddish-purple color in the glass. Array of dark stone and berry fruits on the nose with nuances of petrichor and forest floor. Full-bodied and rugged with a core of purple fruit compressed by firm tannins which linger on the dry finish. Young and tight. Good. Reviewed April 4, 2012 ARTICLE »

2009 Hartford Court Fog Dance Green Valley of Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.5 alc., pH 3.66, TA 0.56, 350 cases, $60. From an organically farmed estate vineyard planted in Goldridge fine sandy loam with primarily Dijon clones 667 and 777. Aged 15 months in 40% new French oak barrels. Unfined and unfiltered. · Dark reddish-purple color in the glass. Complex aromatic profile with scents of exotic berries, citrus peel and forest floor. Very different tasting from other wines in the lineup. Dark red and purple fruits are vivid and brightened by perceived heightened acidity (minerality) and caressed by soft tannins. Impressive aromatic intensity and length on the finish. Very good (+). Reviewed April 4, 2012 ARTICLE »

2009 Hartford Court Fog Dance Vineyards Green Valley of Russian River Valley Chardonnay

14.6% alc., pH 3.52, TA 0.55, $60. Named for the dance performed by the Pacific fog that drifts through the vineyards and back again to sea each day. Planted in 1998 to Dijon Chardonnay clones 95, 96 and 809. Aged 15 months in 20% new French oak barrels. Inaugural vintage of this bottling. · Light straw color in the glass. Aromas of green apple, pear, lemon curd and petrichor. Flavors of baked pear, lemon, apple and brown butter. Rich, yet refined and crisp. Very good (+). Reviewed April 4, 2012 ARTICLE »

2009 Hartford Court Hailey’s Block Green Valley of Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

$60. Named after Don and Jennifer Hartford’s daughter Hailey. From a block of Arrendell Vineyard planted to Dijon 114 and 777 clones. · Aromas of red cherries and raspberries, baking spice including allspice and floral garden. Moderately intense dark red fruit flavor accented by spice. Soft tannins and reasonably good length on a finish that has a very soft landing. Good (+). Reviewed April 4, 2012 ARTICLE »

2009 Hartford Court Seascape Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., pH 3.74, TA 0.56, 250 cases, $60. The vineyard is located south of Fort Ross adjacent the well-known Coastlands Vineyard. Dijon clones 777, 114 and 115 with some 2A. Yields are only about 1 ton per acre. Native yeast fermentations. Aged 15 months in 45% new French oak barrels. Unfined and unfiltered. · Well-spiced black raspberry and black cherry fruit with hints of spice, vanilla and peat. A very soft and elegant wine with gossamer tannins that is irresistible. Very good. Reviewed April 4, 2012 ARTICLE »

2009 Hartford Court Sevens Bench Carneros Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., pH 3.75, TA 0.53, 300 cases, $60. From an estate vineyard near Saintsbury’s Brown Ranch and Shafer’s Red Shoulder Ranch. Primarily Dijon clones 667 and 777. Native and cultured yeast fermentations. Aged 15 months in 60% new French oak barrels. · Moderately deep reddish-purple color in the glass. Deep, darkly fruited nose with complimentary notes of spice and oak. Earthy and tannic, reflecting the heavy clay soils of this vineyard. Rich black cherry and dark red berry flavors with a velvety mouth feel. Good. Reviewed April 4, 2012 ARTICLE »

2009 Hartford Court Velvet Sisters Anderson Valley Pinot Noir

$60. The vineyard is located in the deep end of the Anderson Valley and one of the last vineyards to be harvested. · Moderate reddish-purple color in the glass. Nicely spiced dark red fruits on the nose. Impressive mid palate intensity and staying power on the finish. Delicious red and blue fruits wrapped in ripe, firm tannins. Laser-like in its focus and purpose. Very good (+). Reviewed April 4, 2012 ARTICLE »

2009 Hartford Court Arrendell Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.7% alc., ph 3.46, TA 0.61, 300 cases, $85. Planted by Dutton in 1975 with Martini heirloom selections. More recently, Dijon clones have been added. Struggles to ripen less than 1 ton per acre by Halloween. The winery’s flagship wine. · Layers of aromatic interest offering scents of black cherries, kirsch, spice and oak. Soft and luscious on the palate with mouth coating flavors of black raspberries lingering on a well-endowed, memorable Grand Cru finish. Relatively soft tannins create a sleekness but keep the fruit in line, while a bright cut of acidity adds vibrancy. A very special wine of character. Very good (++). Reviewed April 4, 2012 ARTICLE »

2008 Hartford Court Fog Dance Vineyard Green Valley of Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., pH 3.69, 443 cases, $55. Estate vineyard. Aged 11 months in 50% new French oak. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately deep reddish-purple color in the glass. Lovely aromas of black raspberries, rose petals and oak char. Tasty flavors of berries, black cherries, graham, dark coffee and mocha. Smoothly textured and easy to drink. Too much oak-derived flavors for my taste. Good. Reviewed June 8, 2010 ARTICLE »

2008 Hartford Court Seascape Vineyard Sonoma Coast Chardonnay

14.5% alc. pH 3.59, TA 0.60, 450 cases, $65. A 6-acre site west of the town of Occidental planted in the late 1980s. The vineyard borders the well-known Coastlands Vineyard. Extremely cold site that is often harvested in November. Aged 15 months in 50% new French oak barrels. Unfined, unfiltered. · Medium straw color in the glass. Striking minerality, even salinity on the nose. Citrus-driven flavor, crisp and clean with a slightly viscous mouth feel. Very good (+). Reviewed April 4, 2012 ARTICLE »

2007 Hartford Court Arrendell Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.3% alc.. · Deep, dark reddishpurple color in the glass. Love the nose and keep going back. Vivid and penetrating dark Pinot fruits with a little oak riff. Luscious plum and deep berry fruit with a slight sweetness. Flavors of oak, tar and smoke add interest. Smooth in the mouth with a slight watered-down tone on the finish which leaves a little heat in its wake. Good. Reviewed April 8, 2010 ARTICLE »

2005 Hartford Court Land’s Edge Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., $30. Primarily sourced from Annapolis Vineyard with several other coastal vineyards. · Unusual aromas of BBQ smoke, green olive along with strawberry and cherry notes. The smoke continues through on the palate highlighting the darktoned fruits. The tannins are gossamer creating a silky feel in the mouth. The flavors trump the nose. Reviewed April 7, 2008 ARTICLE »

2005 Hartford Court Land’s Edge Vineyards Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., $35, This Pinot Noir is sourced from the estate Land’s Edge Vineyard near Annapolis in the true Sonoma Coast. The grapes here are picked in miniscule levels often as late as November. The wine is aged for 11 months in 50% new French oak. The clones are 115, 667 and 777. · Nothing really stands out with this Pinot Noir but it is perfectly fine. There is plenty of toast, cherry and wild flowers in the nose. As it opens with air time, it gets better and better with more structure, Attractive tangy red cherry flavors with dark caramel develop that persist on the back end. The mouth feel is rich and the tannins perfectly assimilated. Reviewed January 29, 2007 ARTICLE »

2005 Hartford Family Winery Land’s Edge Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

$45. · This wine is from an estate vineyard in Annapolis along the true Sonoma Coast, often harvested as late as November. The nose is replete with crushed cherries and toast. Tangy red cherry flavors with a little dark caramel note last forever. Perfectly fine. Reviewed July 30, 2007 ARTICLE »

1997 Hartford Court Marin County Pinot Noir

13.5% alc. · A very elegant and mellow wine with an appealing velvety texture. A good argument against the adage that California Pinots can’t age. Reviewed November 26, 2006 ARTICLE »