2013 Walter Hansel "Cahill Lane" Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

A blend of three clones - Dijon clones 114 and 115, as well as Rochioli material - the 2013 Pinot Noir Cahill Lane has a dark ruby color and a fragrant style with floral and earth tones intermixed with strawberries and black cherries. The sweetness of the tannin as well as the heady glycerin and lushness make for a hedonistic and intellectually satisfying Pinot Noir to drink over the next 7-10 years. Some of the best values in Chardonnay and Pinot Noir emerge from Stephen Hansel‰۪s winery in the Russian River Valley. He also has the wonderful Walter Hansel Wine & Bistro on Guerneville Road in Santa Rosa. The 2013 Pinot Noirs, which Stephen Hansel described as more European and restrained than the 2012s, were all bottled unfined and unfiltered and are just now beginning to strut their stuff. All represent excellent value in Pinot Noir. (RP)