Walter Hansel Pinot Noir "Estate" 2021
(Russian River Valley, Sonoma, California) - [VM 92] [JD 90]

About the Winery:
Walter Hansel was a lifelong wine enthusiast who had the vision to plant his estate's original 250 vines down the road from Kistler and Dehlinger in 1978. Today, Stephen, Walter's son - who studied under Tom Rochioli - has taken up where his father left off, pursuing his vision of producing world-class Burgundian-styled Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, all from the Russian River Valley.

At Walter Hansel Winery, the emphasis is on low yields (a miniscule range from 1.5 to 2.7 tons/acre) for greater complexity. Since all their grapes are grown on their own property, they can exercise strict control in the vineyards, which are planted with 5 Pinot and 5 Chardonnay clones. Each clone was chosen for its specific acid and flavor variations. The winery uses only natural yeast during fermentation. Fining and filtration are minimal. The Pinots are held on the lees without racking for 12 months. 

About the Vineyard:
The Estate wines are made to be fresh and drink earlier than the vineyard designate wines. The Estate parcel for Pinot Noir is at the northern most spot in the vineyard and is planted to the Rochioli clone.

92 Points - Vinous Media:
"The 2021 Pinot Noir The Estate Vineyards is gracious, elegant and silky. Crushed red/purplish berry fruit, spice and mint are nicely laced together in a juicy, mid-weight Pinot that delivers the goods. The 2021 offers tons of immediacy, but marries that with a good bit of energy. This is a very serious wine with a bright, bright future. Drink 2024-2033." -AG (1/23)

90 Points - Jeb Dunnuck:

"The spicy and ripe 2021 Pinot Noir The Estate Vineyards displays a dark ruby/red hue and is forward with aromas of sandalwood, stewed cherry, and cracked pepper. This full-bodied Pinot is toasty on the palate, with fleshy fruit and angular acidity. A generous entry to the range, it will benefit from another 6 months to a year in bottle. Drink 2024-2028." - JD (Nov 2023)