So after the past entries you've read (and knowing that I am very partial to PNs that exhibit Burgundian characteristics). here is my most current observation:
I had been extremely impressed with the "VintJS" offering last year (2009 into 2010)*(please see my previous posting)*
Nothing had replaced it ( and as you well know, I had tried extensive selections at that approximate price point). Then, the "new VintJS" Pinot Noir was released- the "first offering" was not comparable to the VintJS I had previously, and then... several weeks later, they released another PN from a "different location"- slightly better, but not up to the enjoyable qualities of the previous vintage.
So here comes my best recommendation from their existing stock:
Hahn Winery 2009 Pinot Noir Monterey
Appearance:
Lightish red color with a pale rim (if you need any explanation about the rim or anything else, please feel free to contact me)
On the nose:
Ripe, spicy presentation, with fresh berry (straw/blue) and a dark cherry component mixed with subtle earth notes(fresh soil, forest floor, etc.) with some fresh mint. Somewhat of an burning (alcohol) sensation on the outer nasal rim (yikes, this sounds weird).
On the Palate:
Fresh, ripe fruit with a "soil" component (along with tobacco herbs) and subtle, dark cherry along with a subtle tannic presence.
This Pinot Noir shines, as it displays a salute to it's Burgundian attributes, while presenting an accessible and affordable option to marketplace comparable red burgundies/pinot noirs.
