2004 Hartford Court Pinot Noir Sevens Bench Vineyard

Sweet, spicy notes of cinnamon, black cherry jam, cold steel, and crushed rocks jump from the glass of the medium ruby-colored 2004 Pinot Noir Sevens Bench Vineyard. Riper than some of its siblings, with sweeter cherry fruit as well as abundant spice, it should be consumed over the next 3-4 years. This is one of my favorite wineries for Burgundian-styled Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs as well as full-throttle Zinfandels (although the 2005s are lighter than usual). Don Hartford and Jess Jackson have incredible access to some fabulous vineyards. Previously recommended: 2003 Chardonnay Seascape (96), 2003 Chardonnay Stone Cote (94+), 2003 Chardonnay Three Jacks (96), 2003 Pinot Noir Arrendell Vineyard (91), 2003 Pinot Noir Seascape (90), 2004 Zinfandel Russian River (93), 2004 Zinfandel Dina’s Vineyard (90?), 2004 Zinfandel Fanucchi-Wood Road Vineyard (94), 2004 Zinfandel Hartford Vineyard (91), 2004 Zinfandel Highwire Vineyard (91). Tel. (800) 588-0234; Fax (800) 600-5895