2006 Walter Hansel Winery Pinot Noir Cahill Lane- USA, California, Sonoma County, Russian River Valley (6/7/2009)
Another fantastic bottle from these guys. Popped and poured, no need to wait, it was killer from the first sip. Earthy nose with a little rocks. Lively acidity adds bigtime to the lazer sharp, juicy and crisp pomegranate and cranberry flavors. This is all on the red fruit spectrum. Lovely suave texture adds to the fun. One of my favorites from this vintage without a doubt. Room for some upside if this adds anymore nuance with time. (92 pts.)
Thanks for the note, Tim. I had this about six months ago and it drank the way yours did. Then I had another one about three weeks ago and found it thin, hollow and short on the finish finish. Based on what you wrote, I think I must have had an off bottle. I have a few more left so I’m hoping that’s the case.
Have you experienced any bottle variation with Hansel?
Yes. Everybottle of the 03 south slope I’ve had has been different. That is the most extreme, but I have noticed a little more with then than other Cali pinots.