Paul Hobbs Russian River Valley Pinot Noir 2020

"A bright, magenta color with pinkish red edges shows intensity, youthfulness and concentration. Aroma sequences immediately leap from the glass with freshness and vigor. There are red berries, freshly cut straw, rhubard and elegantly perfumed red flowers. A blood orange zest inermixes with herbes de provence, cranberries, and tigh-grained French barrique. The structure of the wine is medium-plus at first, but as the wine unfolds in the mid-palate it begins to tighten and constrict. Acid levels are earnest in this wine, but there is a broad density that seems to take a combative stance to its brightness as the finish expands into chalky minerality, tangerine spice and an underlayment of crushed river rock. An argument can be made that this is the most impressive bottling that Jean-Nicolas Méo has achieved yet." —winemaker

"The 2021 Pinot Noir is fresh and lively with perfumed black raspberry and cherry aromatics wrapped in rustic forest floor notes. Juicy Bing cherry, savory herbs, and ripe dark berries create a complex and textured palate with acid structure and balance leading to a delightfully engaging finish." —winemaker

"La Rinconada is simply prismatic—a multifaceted, crystalline encounter with the allure of the Santa Rita Hills. In this bottling we incorporate two distinct vineyard blocks: R25 provides shimmering red fruit, and R22 resonates darker, adorned with tracery of lavender and violet. The resulting wine is concentrated and sonorous; though immediately compelling, it will surely reward patience." —winemaker

"Fruit Focused. Floral hints of fresh linen, hyacinth lilt over blackberry and black cherry preserve. Great acid and structure lead to a mouthwatering finish." —winemaker