2023 Hartford Court - Pinot Noir Russian River Valley (750ml)

Hartford Court traces its roots to 1992, when Don and Jenny Hartford purchased the property that would become their winery, with the first crush following just two years later. Jenny is the daughter of the late Jess Jackson, and the winery operates today as part of the broader Jackson Family Farms portfolio, drawing on some of the most sought-after cool-climate vineyard sites in Sonoma County. Winemaker Jeff Stewart oversees production, emphasizing sustainable, organic, and biodynamic farming practices across the estate, with tight vine spacing, restricted yields, and dry farming used to concentrate character in the fruit.

This Pinot Noir combines estate-grown grapes with fruit purchased from trusted Russian River Valley vineyard partners, chosen to reflect the appellation's reputation for cool-climate elegance. The region benefits from a steady late-afternoon flow of Pacific fog that moves in through the Petaluma Gap, slowing ripening and helping the grapes hold onto natural acidity. The wine is aged for nine months in French oak, a modest portion of it new, allowing the fruit's brightness to remain front and center.

The wine offers layered aromas of cranberry, pomegranate, graham cracker, tobacco, and forest floor, with a full-bodied palate of concentrated, spicy fruit framed by grainy tannins and lively acidity. The finish is long and flavorful. Pair it with roasted duck, grilled salmon, or a wild game stew.