2005 Hamilton Russell Walker Bay Pinot Noir, 14.1% alc., $26.99: After taking such delight in the '05 Hamilton Russell Walker Bay Chardonnay, there was no way we weren’t going to give this ruby dark garnet Pinot Noir a try, and we thought it only appropriate to open one with Sally and Joel Goldberg, who’ve actually visited this estate. It offers rich smoky plum and black cherry flavors and aromas anchored with a nice earthy base; well structured for at least five years of development and improvement, and yet quite accessible now, showing a distinctive sense of finesse and refinement. Joel offered the following impressions: “Just gorgeous; opulent, yet elegant at the same time, a rare commodity in Pinot, I think; so clearly New World, but not over the top.” I’d agree on each count, as this is also clearly world class Pinot Noir. From low-vigor, stony, clay-rich soil, with a cool maritime mesoclimate, producing naturally tiny yields of under 30 hl/ha; aged 9 months, 100% 228 liter French Oak Barrels - Alliers 82% “Tight Grain” 18%; 1st fill - 42%, 2nd fill - 17%, 3rd fill - 30%. 100% Malolactic, 5,380 cases produced.
Imported by Vineyard Brands, Inc., Birmingham, AL
- from A Mess o' Reds
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