The dense ruby/purple-tinged 2004 Pinot Noir The South Slope (600 cases produced from clone 777) is the highest elevation Pinot in this portfolio. Sweet, broad, heady, perfumed, and rich, with abundant fruit, this showy Pinot is typical of this vintage. It should be much more accessible than the 2003 when released in late 2005. One of northern California’s “good guys” is undeniably Stephen Hansel, who fashions top-quality Burgundian-styled Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs. Tom Rochioli first brought these wines to my attention, and Hansel is now one of my reference point visits in the North Coast. Known locally as a major car dealer, Hansel founded the winery in 1978 and now owns over 80 acres under vine. These are all noteworthy cuvees that remain somewhat under the radar. Moreover, prices remain unbelievably fair for wines of such quality. Tel. (707) 525-3614; Fax (707) 528-1310

The dense ruby/purple-tinged 2004 Pinot Noir The South Slope (600 cases produced from clone 777) is the highest elevation Pinot in this portfolio. Sweet, broad, heady, perfumed, and rich, with abundant fruit, this showy Pinot is typical of this vintage. It should be much more accessible than the 2003 when released in late 2005. One of northern California’s “good guys” is undeniably Stephen Hansel, who fashions top-quality Burgundian-styled Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs. Tom Rochioli first brought these wines to my attention, and Hansel is now one of my reference point visits in the North Coast. Known locally as a major car dealer, Hansel founded the winery in 1978 and now owns over 80 acres under vine. These are all noteworthy cuvees that remain somewhat under the radar. Moreover, prices remain unbelievably fair for wines of such quality. Tel. (707) 525-3614; Fax (707) 528-1310