2021 Hirsch 'Block 8' Estate Pinot Noir

The Block 8 Estate Pinot Noir is made entirely from a single block, a section of our vineyard that David Hirsch has long considered his grand cru parcel.

Block 8 is the only location at Hirsch where we have the Boomer-Mendocino soil formation. Characterized by a reddish tint from high amounts of iron oxide, the rock and gravel content in the soil averages 40-70% throughout. This results in superb drainage, allowing the roots to run deep and pervasive.

Block 8 is divided into 5 sub-parcels, determined based on rock content, all planted in 1993. The cuttings came from our oldest vines (The Old Vineyard) and are a field blend of the heritage pinot noir clones of Pommard and Wädenswil.

This extraordinary vineyard produces distinctive wines with supple, elegant tannins, explosive fruit aromatics, balanced acidity and complex aromatics.

The 2021 Block 8 opens with an explosion of crushed strawberries, mingled with notes of rose petal, wet stone and fresh cherries. Incredibly perfumed, the nose is regal, self-confident and seductive. On the palate, the attack is silky, juicy and generous. In classic Block 8 fashion, the tannins are present but seamlessly interwoven with the fruit, creating a harmonious mouthfeel. The finish is long and persistent.