2018 Hirsch Vineyards West Ridge Pinot Noir

The 2018 Hirsch Vineyards West Ridge Pinot Noir is an exquisitely perfumed and texturally captivating wine that showcases the more sheltered, sun-kissed character of the estate's West Ridge block, where slightly warmer conditions and distinct soils produce Pinot Noir of remarkable richness and sensual appeal. This wine enchants immediately with its opulent bouquet of ripe Bing cherry, wild blackberry, and red plum, lifted by floral notes of violet and rose petal, alongside nuances of cola, sweet pipe tobacco, and a subtle touch of vanilla from judicious oak aging. On the palate, it reveals a lush, velvety texture that belies an underlying structure of refined tannins and bright acidity, creating a wine of both immediate pleasure and impressive balance. Flavors of concentrated dark fruit meld seamlessly with hints of cinnamon, star anise, and cocoa, while a thread of earthy complexity—forest floor, dried leaves, and a whisper of coastal scrub—adds dimension and keeps the wine grounded in its wild, maritime origins. The 2018 vintage's generous warmth is evident in the wine's ripe fruit profile and supple mouthfeel, yet the West Ridge site's natural elegance ensures the wine never loses its sense of restraint or place. The finish is long and satisfying, with lingering notes of black tea, baking spices, and a subtle savory quality that invites another sip, making this bottling a compelling example of how Hirsch Vineyards captures the diverse personalities within their remarkable Sonoma Coast estate.