2005 Paul Hobbs Pinot Noir Hyde Vineyard
Estimated value
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Tasting notes
Light red. Zesty redcurrant and wild strawberry aromas, with an exotic cinnamon accent. Crisp, lively pinot, with fresh red berry flavors, moderate weight and a clean, mineral-driven finish. A very linear wine with a bright, nervy personality.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2005 Pinot Noir Hyde Vineyard (700 cases) exhibits plenty of cool climate raspberry notes intermixed with cherries, cranberries, earth, spice, and a hint of licorice. Medium to full-bodied, and more complex than the Russian River bottling, but not as fleshy, it should drink well for 4-6 years. Although I did not have an opportunity to taste the 2004 Bramare Marchiori Vineyard Malbec, the 2004 Bramare Marchiori Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon ($85; 92) and the 2004 Cobos Marchiori Vineyard Malbec ($150; 96) make one realize just what spectacular raw materials combined with impeccable winemaking can accomplish. Although they are not inexpensive, they are amazing wines. I always end my tasting with the dynamic Paul Hobbs with his two Argentinean Malbecs. Dr. J. Miller is the Wine Advocate team’s South American expert, and I’m sure he’ll chime in on what he thinks of these wines, but there are so many great Malbecs coming from Argentina, it’s a fun place to be at the moment. Not yet released. Previously recommended: 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa (93), 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To-Kalon Vineyard (97), 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard (95), 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Cross Barn (87), 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Hyde Vineyard (93), 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Stagecoach Vineyard (94+). Tel. (707) 824-9879; Fax (707) 824-5843
About the producer
Paul Hobbs is one of California wine’s biggest names. Twice named Wine Personality of the Year by Robert Parker, he joined Robert Mondavi in 1977, worked at Opus One and Simi before setting up his eponymous winery in 1991.