Jnewman7’s note below from a few years ago is quite apt for us — a bit hot, and at the same time masking (or lacking in) fruit, and rather linear. The consensus was that this may have been better five or so years ago. Tant pis, that’s how it goes sometimes.
Very dark in color with a nose of black raspberry, hints of cola, some wet rocky notes, and some oaky baking spice. The palate is big with a bit too much alcohol so that it feels hot on the back palate. It finishes ok other than the warmth. This is good Sonoma pinot, especially if you prefer the bigger, riper Cali style. I like it, but feel its lacking some balance and elegance that really good pinot has.
Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
/ Comment
My system (nose mouth finish) /+/, Tasted next to 2001 Joseph Swan Trenton Estate as I have done several times with these 2 wineries. Took a little longer to open up. Some spice and dried fruits, Drink now.
Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
/ Comment
Professional reviews have copyrights and you can view them here for your personal use only as private content. To view pro reviews you must either subscribe to a pre-integrated publication or manually enter reviews below. Learn more.
12/26/2017 - Deux Chevaux wrote:
Jnewman7’s note below from a few years ago is quite apt for us — a bit hot, and at the same time masking (or lacking in) fruit, and rather linear. The consensus was that this may have been better five or so years ago. Tant pis, that’s how it goes sometimes.
Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No / Comments (2)
11/19/2013 - jnewman77 wrote:
Very dark in color with a nose of black raspberry, hints of cola, some wet rocky notes, and some oaky baking spice. The palate is big with a bit too much alcohol so that it feels hot on the back palate. It finishes ok other than the warmth. This is good Sonoma pinot, especially if you prefer the bigger, riper Cali style. I like it, but feel its lacking some balance and elegance that really good pinot has.
Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No / Comment
2/8/2012 - xtrmjoe wrote: 90 Points
My system (nose mouth finish) /+/, Tasted next to 2001 Joseph Swan Trenton Estate as I have done several times with these 2 wineries. Took a little longer to open up. Some spice and dried fruits, Drink now.
Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No / Comment
10/8/2010 - dofzin wrote: 90 Points
Silky complexion, a hint of dark cherries, and just a touch of chalkiness which provides for an overall well-balanced taste.
Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No / Comment
6/12/2010 - BarbaraW wrote:
This was opened after the 750 ml bottle that McNeil brought was found to be corked. Classic Hanzell characteristics, still has a lot of life in it.
Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No / Comment