2010 Wren Hop, Pinot Noir “The Fire Messenger” Sonoma Coast.
Wren Hop Vineyards are certainly a label to watch, this new winery has turned out some really wonderful wines in their first couple of vintages and with Russell Bevans making the wines things look good for what’s ahead. In 2010 Wren Hop did three Pinots and a few Chardonnays from select vineyard sites in the Sonoma Coast, all of which are showing well, but for me the stand out was the 2010 The Fire Messenger Pinot Noir made from vines planted to the Swan clone. This 4 barrel, artisan Pinot is a full throttle effort with vibrant and lush fruit, balanced acidity and an array of layers that include mineral, toasty French oak shadings, earth and licorice elements to go along with the core of cherry, plum and raspberry fruit. Look for the oak vanilla notes to fade into the background as the wine comes together over the next few years, but plan to enjoy this flamboyant and mouth filling Pinot Noir in it’s youth as it is all you’d expect and more. Drink between 2013-2017 for the best rewards, as mentioned there is not much of this hedonistic wine available as only 100 cases were made.
($65 Est.) 94 Points, grapelive
Avail at www.sfwtc.com