2023 Hirsch ‘Block 8’ Whole Cluster Estate Pinot Noir Hirsch Collection Exclusive

David Hirsch has long considered Block 8 to be his grand cru parcel, and since 2011 we have bottled this singular vineyard on its own.

In 2023, for the first time, we fermented and bottled a section of Block 8 separately, exclusively for our Hirsch Collection members.

The 8A-4-North subblock of Block 8 was set aside and fermented with 40% whole cluster. The remainder of Block 8 was 100% destemmed before fermentation.

The whole cluster tank was steeped, with no cold soak and no extraction except gentle cap wettings throughout the entire fermentation. This contrast with our normal extraction protocols with typically include long cold soaks and a combination of punchdowns and pumpovers. The extremely gentle approach we employed with the whole cluster tank was chosen to protect the grape stems from breakage.

With this bottling, we invite our Hirsch Collection members into our winemaking process. The 2023 Block 8 Whole Cluster is a savory, energetic and herbaceous expression of one of our most singular vineyards. We encourage you to try this wine next to the 2023 Block 8 Pinot Noir, which was recently released to members last winter. While both wines show the terroir of Block 8, the different winemaking processes offer two different lenses into this unique site.

Winemaking

This wine is made from the 8A-4-North subblock of Block 8, which was set aside and fermented with 40% whole cluster. The remainder of Block 8 was 100% destemmed before fermentation.

The whole cluster tank was steeped, with no cold soak and no extraction except gentle cap wettings throughout the entire fermentation. This contrast with our normal extraction protocols with typically include long cold soaks and a combination pf punchdowns and pumpovers. The extremely gentle approach we employed with the whole cluster tank was chosen to protect the grape stems from breakage.

Just 83 cases were produced.

Tasting Notes

The Block 8 Whole Cluster is a savory, energetic and unique expression of one of our most singular vineyards. The wine opens with notes of loganberry, rosin, fresh herbs and tart plums. With air, petrichor and a hint of woodsmoke emerge. A long line of energy runs through this wine, bringing intensity and a very long finish.

Service Notes

This wine will benefit from 1-2 years in the cellar, but it can be enjoyed now with a couple hours of air. We encourage you to try this wine next to the 2023 Block 8 Pinot Noir.