Hirsch East Ridge Pinot Noir 2022

The East Ridge is one of the oldest and most unique sections of the Hirsch Vineyard. David Hirsch began planning the East Ridge in 1990. Beginning at an elevation of 1,600 feet, it slopes steeply into the eastern canyon. Fog gathers in the canyon at night, and during the day, cool ocean breezes circulate amongst the vines. However it is often the first place the fog burns off in the morning, making it a relatively warmer site.

Eighty percent of the old vines on the East Ridge are stricken with phylloxera, resulting in some of the lowest yields at Hirsch, and requiring intensive and meticulous vine-by-vine farming. The low yields contribute to a notable concentration of fruit in the East Ridge Pinot Noir. The phylloxera also devigorates the vines, inhibiting photosynthesis and slowing sugar accumulation. This combination of low vigor and low yields results in a wine of dark-fruited concentration tempered by elegance and naturally low alcohol. It is a masculine and structured expression of the Hirsch Vineyard, with fantastic concentration and energy.