2016 Failla Pinot Noir Hirsch Vineyard
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Tasting notes
I also loved the 2016 Pinot Noir Hirsch Vineyard, which is the most exotic, perfumed, and floral red in the lineup. Rose petals, blueberries, strawberries, and violets notes give way to a medium-bodied, seamless 2016 that has integrated acidity, sweet tannin, no hard edges, and outstanding length. Need a dead ringer for a top Volnay? Give this a whirl. Readers looking for a serious lineup of single vineyard Pinot Noirs and Chardonnay that have a distinctly Burgundian vibe need to check out these releases from Ehren Jordan and Savanna Wright. Failla owns prime terroirs on the Sonoma Coast, as well as has access to some of the best vineyards in the region. While these aren’t for those craving big, powerful wines, they have plenty of intensity as well as singular profiles. In addition to the Sonoma releases, Jordan’s Oregon releases and a few Rhône variety wines are also included in this report.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jeb Dunnuck
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Precision and nuance are two of the key signatures in the 2016 Pinot Noir Hirsch. Bright red cherry, raspberry and earthy notes are beautifully delineated in the glass. There is not a lot of whole cluster influence here. Then again, this fruit doesn't seem to need much. A wine of translucence and finesse, the Hirsch is truly superb, and that is especially remarkable given it was bottled just a short time before this tasting.