William Hunter's third generic Pinot Noir is the 2009 Russian River. It reveals a dark ruby/purple color (similar to the Sonoma cuvee) as well as sweet boysenberry and black cherry fruit, a fleshy, concentrated mouthfeel and excellent acidity, freshness and body. This beauty should drink well for 5-6 years. Both the Sonoma and Russian River efforts enjoy impressive levels of concentration in 2009.
Chasseur is a Chardonnay and Pinot Noir specialist, and a fine one at that. What follows is not the entire portfolio, but it is a relatively comprehensive look at four Chardonnays and then a bevy of Pinot Noirs from both the 2008 and 2009 vintages. I was able to taste eight already bottled 2009 Pinot Noirs and nine 2008s. The 2008s include several generic bottles such as the Russian River and Sonoma Coast offerings. The single vineyard Pinot Noirs primarily come from Russian River sites with the Joyce from the Sonoma Coast. The alcohol levels range from a low of 14% to a high of 15%, and production levels are modest with several in the 75-125 case range. 91WA
