Trophy for Best Pinot Noir
SIX NATIONS WINE CHALLENGE 2019
It would be impossible to overstate the impact and legacy of David Hirsch on the viticultural scene in the United States. When he bought his remote ranch, perched high on the very cool Sonoma Coast, in 1978 there wasn't a vineyard for miles around. His decision to plant Pinot Noir in 1980 established him as one of California's new viticultural pioneers.
In 2002, with a full understanding of his vineyard gained over nearly 20 vintages, Hirsch decided to build a winery and bottle the best parcels of fruit under his own label. There is huge complexity of soil and topography across the vineyard, with 63 individual Pinot Noir blocks and 4 individual Chardonnay blocks being picked and vinified separately each year.
Jasmine Hirsch, David's daughter and one of the most insightful and considerate winemakers you will ever meet, now runs the estate. The process of farming to enable an early harvest has been honed over many vintages, ensuring terroir is never masked by ripeness, and delivering wines of refinement, grace and intensity of flavour without weight.
Now fully biodynamic, winemaking has been decidedly hands-off from the outset, and the resulting Pinot Noir - more earthy, more savoury, and with a remarkable ability to age and develop in the cellar - are some of the most highly praised and sought after in the United States.
Featured Wines
Raschen Ridge Pinot Noir
2021
"Dark strawberry with stone and redwood, with granite undertones. Oyster shell. Some sea breeze as well. Full to medium body with incredible energy and character to this. So vinous and intense. Superb depth and layers. Swan and pommard clones. Amazing wine. Try after 2028 but already a legend in the bottle."
100 points, James Suckling
Reserve Pinot Noir
2021
“Aromas of grilled seaweed, oyster shell and iodine with ripe strawberry and citrus rind. Full-bodied with lots of juicy fruit and structure. Fine tannins that are toned and focused. Excellent length. Holding back still. Try after 2026.”
98 points, James Suckling
Maritime Pinot Noir
2021
“So complex and subtle with hibiscus, seaweed, forest floor and salt. Brambleberry. Medium to full body with redwood, mushrooms, forest strawberries and raspberries. This is really exceptional. Tight at the end. Give it three or four years to come around but already great. Best after 2026.”
97 points, James Suckling