Russian Hill Estate

Going from Woodenhead to Russian Hill was a tasting trip in reverse. At Woodenhead, they were tasting out of the barrel, but not selling futures. Russian Hill opted out of the event altogether this year, which, based upon past years, was very disappointing. Case in point, we were making this stop to pick up both syrah and pinot noir from last year. We still took the time to taste their wines though, and it was worthwhile.
Odd story about this pinot noir… The winery decided to engage their customers in the naming process. One year later, they couldn’t release the wine because none of the submissions were either appropriate or legal. People…what are you going to do?

2008 Chardonnay Gail Ann’s Vineyard $32//French oak smell – soft lemon, and lightly buttery. It was aged 50/50 in French oak and stainless steel. It was left 10 months on the lees. Surprisingly, the palate was crisp & lemony (lightly). As further tasting will reveal this weekend, this seems to be the pervasive theme for chardonnays – soft, buttery, creamy nose, but crisp, tart, and clean on the palate.

2008 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir $36/-/$34Enticing nose of baked spices, cherry, and strawberry. Mild soft tannins with a medium body on the palate that follows throughout.

2008 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir Estate Grown $36/-/$36Same baked spices with hints of vanilla and cherry (both bing and black). It’s medium bodied with palate follow-through.

2008 Pinot Noir Tara VineyardStronger baked spices with a little cherry on the nose, but no less appealing. No tannic finish – pretty clean with some mild cinnamon.

2008 Russian River Valley Estate Vineyard SyrahThe nose is muted with hints of a velvety finish. It’s showing nicely and suitable for pairing with a peppery dinner.