Walter Hansel Winery Pinot Noir North Slope Vineyard 2018

The 2018 Walter Hansel “The North Slope” Pinot Noir is a standout expression of Russian River Valley intensity, balancing the winery’s signature power with a sophisticated, lifted acidity. In the glass, it presents a deep ruby-purple hue that hints at the concentration within.

On the nose, this vintage is exceptionally expressive. You’ll find a vibrant core of cranberry and blackberry fruit layered with more savory, complex notes of pipe tobacco, forest floor, and a distinct touch of blood orange zest. There is an underlying floral perfume—think rose petals and violets—that keeps the aromatics from feeling too heavy.

The palate is where the North Slope’s pedigree really shines. It is medium-to-full-bodied with a creamy textural richness that Walter Hansel fans have come to love, yet it avoids being overly jammy. Flavors of plum, mocha, and licorice are framed by silky tannins and a bright, zesty acid backbone that provides incredible tension. The finish is long and detailed, evolving from dark fruit into spice and a touch of toasted oak.

While it has the structure to age gracefully, the 2018 is remarkably approachable now. It’s a generous, resonant Pinot that captures the “North Slope” terroir—a wine that manages to be both a powerhouse and a study in elegance.