The opaque black/purple-colored 1997 Pinot Noir Hirsch Vineyard looks more like Syrah than Pinot Noir. However, the nose offers up aromas of blackberries, cherries, and smoke intermixed with pain grille, roasted herbs, and meat. Medium to full-bodied, with light to moderate tannin, and an exuberant style with firm acidity, this is a classic. Anticipated maturity: 2000-2014. It is easy to get excited about Kistler's Pinot Noirs. All are aged in 100% new oak, made in small lots (250-500 cases), and bottled with neither fining nor filtration. They are trying to keep the levels of SO2 to minimal dosages so the wines can be as expressive as possible. These Pinot Noirs can easily hold their own in blind tastings with the finest red Burgundies. Release date, 3/00. Tel. (707) 823-5603; Fax (707) 823-6709.

The opaque black/purple-colored 1997 Pinot Noir Hirsch Vineyard looks more like Syrah than Pinot Noir. However, the nose offers up aromas of blackberries, cherries, and smoke intermixed with pain grille, roasted herbs, and meat. Medium to full-bodied, with light to moderate tannin, and an exuberant style with firm acidity, this is a classic. Anticipated maturity: 2000-2014.It is easy to get excited about Kistler's Pinot Noirs. All are aged in 100% new oak, made in small lots (250-500 cases), and bottled with neither fining nor filtration. They are trying to keep the levels of SO2 to minimal dosages so the wines can be as expressive as possible. These Pinot Noirs can easily hold their own in blind tastings with the finest red Burgundies.Release date, 3/00.Tel. (707) 823-5603; Fax (707) 823-6709.