2006 Hamacher Pinot Noir BARREL SAMPLES
Oregon, Willamette Valley

Hamacher blends different vineyards to produce their “Oregon” Pinot Noir. Eric Hamacher typically doesn’t produce a single vineyard designated Pinot Noir feeling not quite enough is known about specific sites in order to best produce one from any given site but he may alter than in the near future with a single vineyard release from one of the vineyards. Based on the samples I tasted I’m optimistic about this vintage and look forward to tasting the final blend from bottle. I’ll likely buy when released.

All samples were tasting June 15, 2007 at the winery from old Oak barrels. Hamacher typically uses 30% new oak.

Durant Vineyard
WIML88-92

Garnet color in the glass, clear hue throughout. Very “Volnay” like on the nose with lots of florals, black cherries, black berries and just a touch of white pepper. Sweet red cherries on the palate. Good, clean and pure fruit present.

Lazy River Vineyard
WIML88-92

Garnet color in the glass, clear hue throughout. Ripe fruits on the nose with some mixed berries including a touch of blueberry. Raspberry and red berries on the palate. Good fruit showing here.

Madronna Vineyard (70%), Durant Vineyard (30%)
WIML88-90

Garnet color in the glass, clear hue throughout. Aromas of thistle with some underlying “meatiness” and maybe some red plum. Flavors of black cherries and ripe red berries. Clean on the palate with good fruit showing. Least favorite of the Pinot Noir barrels.

In addition to the Pinot Noir barrels we also tasted some of Eric’s Pinot Noir Port. He never sells it, mostly keeping it for personal use.

Port
WIML90-92

Dark garnet color in the glass, clear hue throughout. Nose of black currants, anise and coffee. Flavors of ripe red and black cherries, golden raisins and some sweet red licorice. 95% Pinot Noir, 5% “Other”. Interesting.