Medium-deep ruby colored, the 2008 Pinot Noir has aromas of red currants, cranberries and kirsch with underlying medicinal and earthy hints. Medium bodied, it offers a good amount of savory fruit in the mouth with medium-high acidity, chewy tannins and a long finish. Drinking now, it should keep through 2014. No known USA importer.

The 2007 Pinot Noir is relatively simple on the nose, but with nice purity: dark cherry, redcurrant and wild strawberry, though perhaps lacking some of the clarity I was hoping for since last year. The palate is medium-bodied with slightly furry tannins, wild strawberry, plum and a touch of mocha, very natural and classic in style with a dry finish. This producer is renowned for its unique take on Nebbiolo, although I am not quite so taken as others. N.B. Please note that these wines are sold as “Hans Family Estate” in all countries except Australia and New Zealand where it goes under the name of “Hans Herzog Estate.” If you seek enlightenment upon New Zealand’s take on international grape varieties then an afternoon with Swiss-born Hanz Herzog should quench your thirst. These are fascinating wines produced in small quantities and although they can be “hit and miss” affairs, the hits are well worth seeking out and kudos to someone who is thinking ‘outside the box’. After all, how do you know that Zweigelt will not work in Marlborough unless you actually cultivate and bottle it? Note that these wines will simply be branded “Hans” in the USA.Importer: Bond Imports, Inc., Littleton, CO; tel. (303) 948-3712; fax (866) 801-3618; www.winehouse.com