The ultimate test of a wine is its ability to age. This wine right now is simply gorgeous.
The combination of dried cherry, rose petal, and earthy but delicate dried leaves is a lovely juxtaposition set off by minty, herbal aromas.
Soft and spare with just enough density to give a slight viscous impression, the palate is imbued with coloristic strength by hints of orange peel and cranberry. Tannins are felt but stay in the background, allowing a lovely fresh, spring water impression to persist on the finish. Despite high acidity it never bites or turns sour.
The delicate patina of age rendered vibrant and expressive, like a fall-flowering plant that signals persistent life even as the season wanes.
Whole cluster fermentation from a relatively warm vintage and very gently oaked.
Heart and Hands is a small, artisanal producer of mostly Pinot Noir, one of the few Finger Lakes wineries that specializes in this varietal. Finger Lakes Pinot Noir is relatively austere but when made well shows considerable finesse and as this wine demonstrates, will age well at least in the 6-10 year range.
Score: 92
Price: $41
Alc: 12.3%
When paired with late Billie Holiday and Lester Young it drinks Fine and Mellow:
Exploring the Philosophy of Food and Wine 