The similarly-colored, expressive 2007 Pinot Noir Fog Dance Vineyard (another Green Valley site) is one of my favorite Pinots in this line-up. Loads of rose petal, black raspberry, and other floral characteristics emerge from this full-bodied, layered, multidimensional wine. It reveals a subtle hint of oak, very good acidity, and unmistakable amounts of minerality.
One of the best wineries in Sonoma, Hartford Family Winery, under the guidance of winemaker Jeff Mangalas, continues to fine tune an impressive portfolio of wines, all from cool climate sites. The top wines are Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs all sold under the Hartford Court label, followed by some Zinfandels (sold under the Hartford moniker) that merit more attention than they receive. All of the winery’s Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs are fermented with indigenous yeasts, and are bottled without fining or filtration. The three Chardonnays among the current releases are all outstanding.
Available through Vin Lux Fine Wines, tel. (866) 462-4641; Fax (866) 853-1707