2006 Hirsch Vineyards Bohan-Dillon Pinot Noir

It is well known that an animal on a wine label can help sell wines. So what about two animals, a cat and a snake? But this is a wine that does not need animals to promote it. And I do not believe the animals were intentionally placed on the label to try to sell more wine.

Jill of Domaine547 initially recommended this wine to me and I decided to take a chance on it and buy a few bottles I felt even more confident in my decision when I also saw the wine being sold at Lower Falls Wine Co.

Hirsch Vineyards was established in 1980 and is located in Fort Ross, Sonoma County. It is perched atop a ridge overlooking the ocean. It was one of the first vineyards in the area to plant pinot noir. They have a very positive outlook on wine, especially its social aspects.

"Wine is one of the mysteries that mirrors the depth and inscrutability of Life itself; and as we have been taught by book and fable, it is a gift to be shared, cherished, respected, and most importantly enjoyed."

The 2006 Hirsch Vineyards Bohan-Dillon Pinot Noir ($30) was produced for the first time since 2003. It is 100% Pinot Noir but is a blend of seventeen fermentation lots containing the fruit of thirty-four discreet farming blocks. 97% of the fruit is estate and the balance is from the adjoining Hellenthal ranch. 30% is from the older fields and the balance is from their newer plantings. 2568 cases were bottled of this wine.

I found this Pinot to have a light red color to it and an enticing nose of spice, especially vanilla, as well as some subtle cherry touches. It has a complex melange of tastes, especially various spices from cinnamon to clove. There are also subtle fruit flavors, a bit of cherry and plum. The tannins were smooth and there was actually a good touch of acidity as well. It has a good, long finish that makes you crave more. It reminded me more of Old World Burgundy than many other California Pinots yet it lacked the earthiness you sometimes get in Burgundy. I very much enjoyed this wine and paired it with some roast chicken which made for an excellent pairing.

This is obviously a well crafted wine and is reasonably priced for its quality. Jill was spot on in her recommendation and I will add my own recommendation as well. Check out this wine!