Dec 30, 2022
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Lucienne
| Owner(s) | Nicolaus Hahn, Phillip Hahn |
| Web site | www.luciennevineyards.com |
| Link to this site |
Winemaker Paul Clifton came to wine from a firefighting career. He grew up in the Monterey Bay area and always felt the lure of the outdoors and agriculture. After college, he considered a white-collar job in the financial world but felt he was more suited to fight fires. After working as a firefighter for a few years, he decided to change careers and in 1996 began his pursuit of becoming a professional winemaker. He started at Bernardus Winery in Carmel Valley, where he was mentored by Don Blackburn, a well-known Pinot Noir vintner who now crafts wine at Emeritus in the Russian River Valley. Paul worked his way up from cellar rat to cellar master at Bernardus and in 1999 moved on to Byington Winery in the Santa Cruz Mountains as assistant winemaker.
He developed a passion for cool climate viticulture and Pinot Noir in particular. To further his knowledge, he attended Lincoln University on the South Island of New Zealand and received a postgraduate degree in viticulture. Upon returning to the United States in 2003, he began working at Hahn Estates in the Santa Lucia Highlands with winemakers Adam Lazarre and Barry Gnekow. With time, Paul became the head winemaker at Hahn Estates and has brought the winery’s Pinot Noir program to prominence. Like many winemakers, Paul is rather shy and unassuming and underplays his considerable accomplishments. He is assisted by winemaker Greg Freeman.
Lucienne Vineyards is an estate winery within the Hahn Estates umbrella of wines launched with the 2005 vintage. Owned by Nicholas Lucien Hahn, the winery is a separate facility - a winery within a winery. The goal at Lucienne is to produce premium Pinot Noir in small lots from exceptional estate vineyards including Lone Oak Vineyard and Doctor’s Vineyard. The winery takes its name from Nicky Hahn’s middle name Lucien, but in the feminine form to honor the namesake of the Santa Lucia Mountain range where the vineyards are located.
By 2018, Hahn owned over 300 acres of Pinot Noir in the Santa Lucia Highlands. The Hahn Family owns and farms 10 percent of the 6,100 vineyard acres in the Santa Lucia Highlands.
Nicky Hahn died in 2017 and his son Phillip now runs the family business which incorporates six brands including Lucienne.
Lucienne Pinot Noirs are sold through the website. 831-678-2132. The Hahn Estates tasting room in Soledad is open daily.
Articles About Lucienne
2017 California Pinot Noir All-Americans (11.15 12/16/2017)
Affairs of the Vine Pinot Summit Results (8.35 4/11/2011)
California Spring Releases of Pinot Noir to Covet (11.7 8/7/2017)
Hahn Estates: Consistently Top Notch (9.33 11/9/2013)
Lucienne: Very Special Pinot Noir from the Santa Lucia Highlands (9.46 8/25/2014)
More Princely Pinots (8.42 8/11/2011)
New Stars Along the Pinot Trail (7.16 4/18/2009)
On the Pinot Trail: WOPN 2010 (8.13 4/8/2010)
Pinot Shootout Finals Tasting (8.30 1/27/2011)
Quick Trigger: Are Reviews Done Too Soon? (11.18 2/3/2018)
Recently Tasted California Pinot Noir: The Bar Keeps Moving Higher (10.20 11/5/2015)
Sips of Recently Tasted Domestic Chardonnay (11.7 8/7/2017)
The 9th Annual World of Pinot Noir (7.16 4/18/2009)
Winemaker Up Close & Personal: Paul Clifton, Director of Winemaking, Hahn Estates (9.46 8/25/2014)
Reviewed Wines
2015 Lucienne Lone Oak Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Chardonnay
14.5% alc., pH 3.50, TA 0.61, 155
cases, $40. Release May 2017. Grown, produced and bottled by Lucienne Vineyards, Soledad, Ca.. Harvest
Brix 24.8º. Aged 16 months in French oak barrels, 50% new, 50% neutral.
·
Moderately light golden yellow color
in the glass. Reserved aromas of lemon, pineapple and toasty brioche. Flavors of poached pear, cooked apple,
yellow raisin and caramel offered in a rich and ripe style. Slightly viscous in the mouth, with an oak-infused
finish.
Score: 89.
Reviewed August 6, 2017
ARTICLE »
2015 Lucienne Smith Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Chardonnay
14.5% alc., pH 3.64, TA 0.56, 170 6-
pack cases, $40. Harvest Brix 24.5º. Aged 16 months in French oak barrels, 50% new and 50% neutral.
·
Light
golden yellow color in the glass. The aromas of lemon curd, pear, white peach, buttery brioche and righteous
oak maintain over time in the glass. Plush and velvety on the palate, with full weighted flavors of citrus,
pineapple, cooked apple, white stone fruits and poached pear. Ripe fruited and almost syrupy in density, with
embossed notes of caramelized oak. Well done in this flamboyant, Caliesque style.
Score: 91.
Reviewed August 6, 2017
ARTICLE »
2015 Lucienne Doctor’s Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.55, TA 0.57, 1,530
cases, $50. This vineyard is located near the center of the Santa Lucia Highlands 520 feet above sea level.
Harvest Brix 24º-26º. Clones 667, 777, 115, 113, Pommard and Jardini. Aged 15 months in French oak barrels,
40% new, 60% neutral.
·
Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Shy aromas of black grape, black cherry,
pipe smoke and wood. Luscious and bold on the palate yet not jammy. Flavors of black fruits, black tea and
toast. Polished, with a satiny mouthfeel and nicely integrated tannins. This wine shows the most concentration
and oak overlay of the four 2015 Lucienne Pinot Noirs. The wine needs a little more time to rouse itself.
Score: 91.
Reviewed August 6, 2017
ARTICLE »
2015 Lucienne Hook Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.70, TA 0.54, 135 cases,
$50. The farthest south of Hahns four SLH vineyards, this vineyard is least affected by the cooling influence of
winds from Monterey Bay. Harvest Brix 25º. Aged 16 months in French oak barrels, 40% new and 60% neutral.
·
Moderate garnet color in the glass. Shy aromas of red and black fruit compote and graham. Mid weight flavors
of cherry and spice have exceptional lift and length. Very polished, with integrated oak highlights. The wine
sported more aromatic interest and flavor expression when tasted the following day from a previously opened
and re-corked bottle.
Score: 93.
Reviewed August 6, 2017
ARTICLE »
2015 Lucienne Lone Oak Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.67, TA
0.55, 644 cases, $50. This wine is from a 20-acre vineyard located at the northern end of the Santa
Lucia Highlands. It experiences the strongest maritime influence of all of Hahn’s vineyards and the
coolest growing season. Harvest Brix 24º-25.5º. Aged 15 months in French oak barrels, 40% new and
60% neutral.
·
Moderate garnet color in the glass. Enticing aromas of cherry, red berry, spice and toast.
The delicious dark cherry core really alerts the taste buds. Very polished, even slinky, with a subtle
swirl of toasty oak and brown spices. The gossamer tannins make for seductive drinking and the persistent
finish is the most striking of the four 2015 Lucienne Pinot Noirs. This wine is quintessential Santa Lucia
Highlands Pinot Noir.
Score: 95.
Reviewed August 6, 2017
ARTICLE »
2015 Lucienne Smith Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.60, TA 0.57, 2,230 cases, $50. This
vineyard sits at the highest elevation of Hahn’s vineyards.
Harvest Brix 24º-26º. Calera and Jardini clones. Aged 15 months
in French oak barrels, 40% new, 60% neutral.
·
Invigorating
aromas of cherries and spice. This wine has a noticeable
juiciness and spring in its step. Fresh, clean flavor of dark red,
spiced cherry in a middleweight style with a luxurious, comforting texture
like a Nike Dry Fit shirt. Complimentary notes of mocha and vanilla join
the tasty fruit flavors. The finish is extended and generous, and the final
impression is one of thankful harmony.
Score: 94.
Reviewed August 6, 2017
ARTICLE »
2013 Lucienne Doctor’s Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
26 months
·
The barrel treatment is
evident on the nose that also offers pleasing aromas of dark red and black fruits. The middleweight core of
black cherry and blackberry fruits has a significant oak overlay evident as toast and tobacco. The fruit core is
delicious and the silky, soft tannins make for smooth drinking, but the oak is intrusive and has become more
evident over time in bottle. Previously 91
Score: 89.
Reviewed February 4, 2018
ARTICLE »
2013 Lucienne Doctor’s Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.73, TA 0.57, 602
cases, $50. This vineyard is near the center of the Santa Lucia Highlands, 520 feet above sea level. Afternoon
sun exposure leads to riper and more robust flavors than are found in vineyards farther north. Harvest Brix
25.5º-27º. Clones are 667, 777, 115, 113, Pommard and Jardini. Aged 14 months in 100% French oak barrels,
40% new.
·
Dark reddish purple color in the glass. This wine is infused with blackest cherry and blackberry
aromas and flavors accented with oak-driven highlights of tar, anise and black tea. Nicely balanced, with
modest tannins and a vigorous finish with good length.
Score: 91.
Reviewed November 5, 2015
ARTICLE »
2013 Lucienne Lone Oak Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.83, TA 0.56, 598
cases, $50. This 20-acre vineyard is located at the northern end of the Santa Lucia Highlands, and experiences
the strongest maritime influence of all of Hahn’s vineyards and the coolest growing season. Harvest Brix
25.5º-27º. Pommard clone. Aged 14 months in 100% French oak barrels, 40% new.
·
Moderately dark reddish
purple color in the glass. The nose evolves in the glass over time to offer inviting aromas of black cherry, sousbois
and toasty oak. Very suave on the palate with a mid weight core of well ripened darker stone and berry
fruits framed by creamy tannins. This wine shows the most oak imprint of the three 2013 Lucienne Pinot Noirs,
with anise and smoke augmenting the fruit.
Score: 90.
Reviewed November 5, 2015
ARTICLE »
2013 Lucienne Smith Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.62, TA 0.60, 1,224 cases, $50. This vineyard sits at the
highest elevation of Hahn’s vineyards. Harvest Brix 25.5º-27º. Clones are
Calera and Jardini. Aged 14 months in 100% French oak barrels, 40%
new.
·
Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. The nose offers bright
aromas of darker cherries and berries with the right touch of oak.
Beautiful dark fruits including black cherry and blackberry engulf the
palate with richness. Saucy, fat, ripe and lush, with a balanced fine-grain
tannin backbone. A riff of spice, anise and vanilla add interest. Ideal
harmony.
Score: 92.
Reviewed November 5, 2015
ARTICLE »
2012 Lucienne Doctor’s Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.78, TA 0.63, 640
cases, $50. This vineyard consistently produces the most robust fruit that translates into wines that show
intense dark fruit flavors and significant tannins. Clones are Jack 16, 777 and 667. Aged 13 months in 50%
new French oak barrels.
·
Moderately deep purple color in the glass. The initially shy nose becomes more
exuberant over time offering aromas of dark berry compote, black cherry, black currant and oak-driven toast
and vanilla. The wine offers the most intensely sappy fruit in the 2012 lineup, with pleasing flavors of
blackberry, black cherry and black currant. The tannins are well matched and supportive, and the mouthfeel is
smooth and accommodating. The wine becomes more expressive over time in the glass. When tasted two
days later from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, the wine was still aromatic with plenty of slightly
spicy and smoky berry and cherry fruit, and a silken smooth texture.
Score: 92.
Reviewed August 25, 2014
ARTICLE »
2012 Lucienne Hook Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.85, TA 0.60, $50. The
first Hook Vineyard designate.The farthest south of Hahn’s four SLH vineyards. Clone 115. Aged 14 months in
40% new French oak barrels.
·
Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Hi-tone aromas of black
cherry, strawberry, cardamom spice, and subtle smoky oak. Mid weight flavors of red and black cherry,
raspberry, plum and red licorice really explode over time in the glass. A riff of smoky oak adds support, the
tannins are nicely balanced, and the mouthfeel is silky. Plenty of sweet fruit surfaces on the generous finish.
Still flavorful and soft on the palate the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle.
Score: 91.
Reviewed August 25, 2014
ARTICLE »
2012 Lucienne Lone Oak Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.76, TA 0.60, 588
cases, $50. Clones are 667, 115 and Pommard 5. Harvest Brix 27.5º. Aged 13 months in 40% new French
oak barrels.
·
Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Comforting aromas of cherry, strawberry, red
currant, wilted rose petal and sandalwood. A bit lighter in weight, featuring redder fruits including strawberry,
cranberry and cherry. Smooth in the mouth and on the finish, with plenty of oak at play in the background.
Score: 90.
Reviewed August 25, 2014
ARTICLE »
2012 Lucienne Smith Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.80, TA 0.63, 1,149
cases, $50. This vineyard is south of Doctor’s Vineyard and at a higher elevation is less affected by early
morning fog than any of Hahn’s vineyards. Clones are Calera, Jardini and Mt. Eden. Harvest Brix 26.2º. Aged
12 months in 42% new French oak barrels.
·
Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Very appealing
scent of dark red strawberries, blackberries, black currant and spice are echoed on the palate which is very
polished. This wine is silky smooth and seductive, with impeccable oak integration. The finish is the most
generous and lengthy of all the four 2012 Lucienne Pinot Noirs. I would rate it even higher, except for a slight
sense of heat on the finish.
Score: 92.
Reviewed August 25, 2014
ARTICLE »
2011 Lucienne Lone Oak Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.68, TA
0.64, 425 cases, $50. Released June 2013. Lone Oak is smallest and northernmost Pinot Noir estate
vineyard. The cool 2011 vintage resulted in a relatively small crop, but the grapes that were harvested
had greater intensity and concentration. Clones Pommard 5, 667 and 115. 100% de-stemmed, 3-day
cold soak, native and proprietary yeasts, aged 13 months in 40% new and 60% neutral French oak
barrels.
·
Moderately dark reddish-purple color in the glass. Scandalous aromatics featuring bright
aromas of red cherries, raspberries, sandalwood and spice. A chewy wine that you want to nibble
with a perfectly ripened array of red stone and berry fruits. Soft and nimble, with delicate dry tannins
and a refreshing cut of acidity on the ridiculously long finish. This beauty has the balance that predicts
longevity in the cellar.
Score: 94.
Reviewed November 9, 2013
ARTICLE »
2011 Lucienne Smith Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.55, TA 0.66, 438 cases, $50. Released June 2013.
One of the first vineyards in the Santa Lucia Highlands and one of the
original vineyards of Hahn Estate. It is the southernmost of the
vineyards of Lucienne and located at the highest elevation, with the
least influence from marine fog. Clones are Mt. Eden, Jardini,
Pommard 5 and 2A. 100% de-stemmed, 3-day cold soak, proprietary
yeast, aged 13 months in 42% new and 58% neutral French oak barrels.
·
Moderately dark reddish-purple color in the glass. Intoxicating aromas of fresh
black cherries, dark red berries, cardamom spice and a hint of toasty oak.
Discreetly concentrated flavors of dark cherries and berries with a complimentary
riff of spice and oak. Outstanding harmony, very smooth and sensual, with an appealing cherry tang on the
juicy and lengthy finish. The wine continues to pick up charm over time in the glass. Very easy to drink now,
but should get even better with another year in bottle. Very impressive, even extraordinary.
Score: 95.
Reviewed November 9, 2013
ARTICLE »
2009 Lucienne Doctor’s Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5%
alc., pH 3.58, TA 0.63, 647 cases, $50. Released May 2011.11 different clones
of Pinot Noir planted in this vineyard of 243 acres including Calera, 828, 777 and
Swan. Aged in 35% new French oak barrels.
·
Moderate reddish-purple robe.
Aromas of ripe raspberries and cherries. Tasty core of cherries, red plums and
vanilla. A lighter, elegantly styled wine with a lingering fruit presence on the
bright finish. Good (+).
Reviewed August 13, 2011
ARTICLE »
2009 Lucienne Doctor’s Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.58, TA 0.63, 647
cases, $50. Released May 2011.Aged in 35% new French oak barrels.
·
Moderately dark reddish-purple color in
the glass. This wine pushes the ripeness envelope with aromas of black cherries, black raspberries and black
currants accented by spice, sandalwood and vanilla, and flavors that mimic the aromas with an added
undertone of smoky oak and anise. Very silky and harmonious with a satisfying fullness on the palate.
Score: 87.
Reviewed November 9, 2013
ARTICLE »
2009 Lucienne Lone Oak Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.70, TA 0.61, 138
cases, $50. Released May 2011. 146 acres planted to clones 777, 115, Pommard, 2A and 667. Aged in 35%
new French oak barrels.
·
Moderate reddish-purple color in the glass. Muted fruit on the nose with prominent
smoky oak. Medium weighted array of spicy dark red fruits, with notes of oak-derived vanillin, smoke and tar.
No change the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. A bit muddled now. Decent.
Reviewed August 13, 2011
ARTICLE »
2009 Lucienne Lone Oak Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.70, TA 0.61, 138
cases, $50. Released May 2011. Aged in 35% new French oak barrels.
·
Moderately dark reddish-purple color
in the glass. The nose is alive with aromas of cherry pie, black grape and plum with hints of spice and smoky
oak. Rich and fruit-driven on the palate with an array of very ripe dark cherry and berry fruits backed by smoky
oak. Very polished tannins, a soothing mouth feel and a big finish that really hangs on.
Score: 89.
Reviewed November 9, 2013
ARTICLE »
2007 Lucienne Doctor’s Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.8% alc..
·
Moderately deep
reddish-purple robe in the glass. Very attractive nose replete with spiced berries. An extremely charming wine
with the berry fruit core enhanced with notes of spice, cola and chocolate. Discretely rich, beautifully balanced,
with an appealing elegance. Very good.
Reviewed April 8, 2010
ARTICLE »
2007 Lucienne Lone Oak Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
700 cases, $45. The top wine of the
tasting for me and my panel.
·
Very enticing aromas of cherries with an underlying minerality. Velvety and
delicious with a classy core of silky red and black fruits that have a tremendous breadth in the middle palate
and a remarkably persistent aromatic persistence. The mouthfeel is soft and seductive and the wine is
beautifully balanced. The whole package.
Reviewed January 27, 2011
ARTICLE »
2006 Lucienne Vineyards Doctor’s Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., 347 cases, $35. Vineyard planted in 2002. 100% de-stemmed, cold soak
for 3 days, inoculated with BGY yeast, fermented in 3-ton open top fermenters,
punched down three times a day, pressed with a basket press. Aged 12 months in
47% new and 53% neutral French oak barrels.
·
Deep rich nose of fresh plum tart with
near port aromas. Brambly, earthy and rich dark stone fruit flavors with a riff of raisin
and oak, framed by soft tannins and good acidity. The fruit approaches but does not
cross over into over ripeness.
Reviewed April 18, 2009
ARTICLE »
2006 Lucienne Lone Oak Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5% alc.,
217 cases, $45. This is the high-end label from Hahn Estates in the Santa
Lucia Highlands (see feature later in this issue). This wine represents a special
selection from small blocks of Lone Oak Vineyard crafted by winemaker Paul
Clifton. Aged in 50% new French oak.
·
This beauty has a vibrant black cherry
fruitiness with interesting notes of coffee and leather. Very plush and velvety in
the mouth with a fresh, lively and lengthy finish. Evocative and very satisfying.
Reviewed April 18, 2009
ARTICLE »
2006 Lucienne Vineyards Lone Oak Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., 217
cases, $45. Vineyard planted in 2001. 100% de-stemmed, lightly crushed, 3 day cold soak, fermented
in 3-ton open top fermenters, inoculated with EC1118 yeast, punched down three times a day. Free
run put to barrel, wine was pressed using a basket press, aged 12 months in 50% new and 50%
neutral French oak barrels.
·
A thoroughly enjoyable wine with attractive spiced black cherries on the
nose, dark cherries and raspberries on the palate framed by notes of coffee, leather and brown spice,
augmented by supple tannins and ending with a lasting and silky finish.
Reviewed April 18, 2009
ARTICLE »
2015 Lucienne Lone Oak Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Chardonnay
14.5% alc., pH 3.50, TA 0.61, 155 cases, $40. Release May 2017. Grown, produced and bottled by Lucienne Vineyards, Soledad, Ca.. Harvest Brix 24.8º. Aged 16 months in French oak barrels, 50% new, 50% neutral. · Moderately light golden yellow color in the glass. Reserved aromas of lemon, pineapple and toasty brioche. Flavors of poached pear, cooked apple, yellow raisin and caramel offered in a rich and ripe style. Slightly viscous in the mouth, with an oak-infused finish. Score: 89. Reviewed August 6, 2017 ARTICLE »
2015 Lucienne Smith Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Chardonnay
14.5% alc., pH 3.64, TA 0.56, 170 6- pack cases, $40. Harvest Brix 24.5º. Aged 16 months in French oak barrels, 50% new and 50% neutral. · Light golden yellow color in the glass. The aromas of lemon curd, pear, white peach, buttery brioche and righteous oak maintain over time in the glass. Plush and velvety on the palate, with full weighted flavors of citrus, pineapple, cooked apple, white stone fruits and poached pear. Ripe fruited and almost syrupy in density, with embossed notes of caramelized oak. Well done in this flamboyant, Caliesque style. Score: 91. Reviewed August 6, 2017 ARTICLE »
2015 Lucienne Doctor’s Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.55, TA 0.57, 1,530 cases, $50. This vineyard is located near the center of the Santa Lucia Highlands 520 feet above sea level. Harvest Brix 24º-26º. Clones 667, 777, 115, 113, Pommard and Jardini. Aged 15 months in French oak barrels, 40% new, 60% neutral. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Shy aromas of black grape, black cherry, pipe smoke and wood. Luscious and bold on the palate yet not jammy. Flavors of black fruits, black tea and toast. Polished, with a satiny mouthfeel and nicely integrated tannins. This wine shows the most concentration and oak overlay of the four 2015 Lucienne Pinot Noirs. The wine needs a little more time to rouse itself. Score: 91. Reviewed August 6, 2017 ARTICLE »
2015 Lucienne Hook Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.70, TA 0.54, 135 cases, $50. The farthest south of Hahns four SLH vineyards, this vineyard is least affected by the cooling influence of winds from Monterey Bay. Harvest Brix 25º. Aged 16 months in French oak barrels, 40% new and 60% neutral. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Shy aromas of red and black fruit compote and graham. Mid weight flavors of cherry and spice have exceptional lift and length. Very polished, with integrated oak highlights. The wine sported more aromatic interest and flavor expression when tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Score: 93. Reviewed August 6, 2017 ARTICLE »
2015 Lucienne Lone Oak Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.67, TA 0.55, 644 cases, $50. This wine is from a 20-acre vineyard located at the northern end of the Santa Lucia Highlands. It experiences the strongest maritime influence of all of Hahn’s vineyards and the coolest growing season. Harvest Brix 24º-25.5º. Aged 15 months in French oak barrels, 40% new and 60% neutral. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Enticing aromas of cherry, red berry, spice and toast. The delicious dark cherry core really alerts the taste buds. Very polished, even slinky, with a subtle swirl of toasty oak and brown spices. The gossamer tannins make for seductive drinking and the persistent finish is the most striking of the four 2015 Lucienne Pinot Noirs. This wine is quintessential Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir. Score: 95. Reviewed August 6, 2017 ARTICLE »
2015 Lucienne Smith Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.60, TA 0.57, 2,230 cases, $50. This vineyard sits at the highest elevation of Hahn’s vineyards. Harvest Brix 24º-26º. Calera and Jardini clones. Aged 15 months in French oak barrels, 40% new, 60% neutral. · Invigorating aromas of cherries and spice. This wine has a noticeable juiciness and spring in its step. Fresh, clean flavor of dark red, spiced cherry in a middleweight style with a luxurious, comforting texture like a Nike Dry Fit shirt. Complimentary notes of mocha and vanilla join the tasty fruit flavors. The finish is extended and generous, and the final impression is one of thankful harmony. Score: 94. Reviewed August 6, 2017 ARTICLE »
2013 Lucienne Doctor’s Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
26 months · The barrel treatment is evident on the nose that also offers pleasing aromas of dark red and black fruits. The middleweight core of black cherry and blackberry fruits has a significant oak overlay evident as toast and tobacco. The fruit core is delicious and the silky, soft tannins make for smooth drinking, but the oak is intrusive and has become more evident over time in bottle. Previously 91 Score: 89. Reviewed February 4, 2018 ARTICLE »
2013 Lucienne Doctor’s Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.73, TA 0.57, 602 cases, $50. This vineyard is near the center of the Santa Lucia Highlands, 520 feet above sea level. Afternoon sun exposure leads to riper and more robust flavors than are found in vineyards farther north. Harvest Brix 25.5º-27º. Clones are 667, 777, 115, 113, Pommard and Jardini. Aged 14 months in 100% French oak barrels, 40% new. · Dark reddish purple color in the glass. This wine is infused with blackest cherry and blackberry aromas and flavors accented with oak-driven highlights of tar, anise and black tea. Nicely balanced, with modest tannins and a vigorous finish with good length. Score: 91. Reviewed November 5, 2015 ARTICLE »
2013 Lucienne Lone Oak Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.83, TA 0.56, 598 cases, $50. This 20-acre vineyard is located at the northern end of the Santa Lucia Highlands, and experiences the strongest maritime influence of all of Hahn’s vineyards and the coolest growing season. Harvest Brix 25.5º-27º. Pommard clone. Aged 14 months in 100% French oak barrels, 40% new. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. The nose evolves in the glass over time to offer inviting aromas of black cherry, sousbois and toasty oak. Very suave on the palate with a mid weight core of well ripened darker stone and berry fruits framed by creamy tannins. This wine shows the most oak imprint of the three 2013 Lucienne Pinot Noirs, with anise and smoke augmenting the fruit. Score: 90. Reviewed November 5, 2015 ARTICLE »
2013 Lucienne Smith Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.62, TA 0.60, 1,224 cases, $50. This vineyard sits at the highest elevation of Hahn’s vineyards. Harvest Brix 25.5º-27º. Clones are Calera and Jardini. Aged 14 months in 100% French oak barrels, 40% new. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. The nose offers bright aromas of darker cherries and berries with the right touch of oak. Beautiful dark fruits including black cherry and blackberry engulf the palate with richness. Saucy, fat, ripe and lush, with a balanced fine-grain tannin backbone. A riff of spice, anise and vanilla add interest. Ideal harmony. Score: 92. Reviewed November 5, 2015 ARTICLE »
2012 Lucienne Doctor’s Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.78, TA 0.63, 640 cases, $50. This vineyard consistently produces the most robust fruit that translates into wines that show intense dark fruit flavors and significant tannins. Clones are Jack 16, 777 and 667. Aged 13 months in 50% new French oak barrels. · Moderately deep purple color in the glass. The initially shy nose becomes more exuberant over time offering aromas of dark berry compote, black cherry, black currant and oak-driven toast and vanilla. The wine offers the most intensely sappy fruit in the 2012 lineup, with pleasing flavors of blackberry, black cherry and black currant. The tannins are well matched and supportive, and the mouthfeel is smooth and accommodating. The wine becomes more expressive over time in the glass. When tasted two days later from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, the wine was still aromatic with plenty of slightly spicy and smoky berry and cherry fruit, and a silken smooth texture. Score: 92. Reviewed August 25, 2014 ARTICLE »
2012 Lucienne Hook Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.85, TA 0.60, $50. The first Hook Vineyard designate.The farthest south of Hahn’s four SLH vineyards. Clone 115. Aged 14 months in 40% new French oak barrels. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Hi-tone aromas of black cherry, strawberry, cardamom spice, and subtle smoky oak. Mid weight flavors of red and black cherry, raspberry, plum and red licorice really explode over time in the glass. A riff of smoky oak adds support, the tannins are nicely balanced, and the mouthfeel is silky. Plenty of sweet fruit surfaces on the generous finish. Still flavorful and soft on the palate the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Score: 91. Reviewed August 25, 2014 ARTICLE »
2012 Lucienne Lone Oak Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.76, TA 0.60, 588 cases, $50. Clones are 667, 115 and Pommard 5. Harvest Brix 27.5º. Aged 13 months in 40% new French oak barrels. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Comforting aromas of cherry, strawberry, red currant, wilted rose petal and sandalwood. A bit lighter in weight, featuring redder fruits including strawberry, cranberry and cherry. Smooth in the mouth and on the finish, with plenty of oak at play in the background. Score: 90. Reviewed August 25, 2014 ARTICLE »
2012 Lucienne Smith Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.80, TA 0.63, 1,149 cases, $50. This vineyard is south of Doctor’s Vineyard and at a higher elevation is less affected by early morning fog than any of Hahn’s vineyards. Clones are Calera, Jardini and Mt. Eden. Harvest Brix 26.2º. Aged 12 months in 42% new French oak barrels. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Very appealing scent of dark red strawberries, blackberries, black currant and spice are echoed on the palate which is very polished. This wine is silky smooth and seductive, with impeccable oak integration. The finish is the most generous and lengthy of all the four 2012 Lucienne Pinot Noirs. I would rate it even higher, except for a slight sense of heat on the finish. Score: 92. Reviewed August 25, 2014 ARTICLE »
2011 Lucienne Lone Oak Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.68, TA 0.64, 425 cases, $50. Released June 2013. Lone Oak is smallest and northernmost Pinot Noir estate vineyard. The cool 2011 vintage resulted in a relatively small crop, but the grapes that were harvested had greater intensity and concentration. Clones Pommard 5, 667 and 115. 100% de-stemmed, 3-day cold soak, native and proprietary yeasts, aged 13 months in 40% new and 60% neutral French oak barrels. · Moderately dark reddish-purple color in the glass. Scandalous aromatics featuring bright aromas of red cherries, raspberries, sandalwood and spice. A chewy wine that you want to nibble with a perfectly ripened array of red stone and berry fruits. Soft and nimble, with delicate dry tannins and a refreshing cut of acidity on the ridiculously long finish. This beauty has the balance that predicts longevity in the cellar. Score: 94. Reviewed November 9, 2013 ARTICLE »
2011 Lucienne Smith Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.55, TA 0.66, 438 cases, $50. Released June 2013. One of the first vineyards in the Santa Lucia Highlands and one of the original vineyards of Hahn Estate. It is the southernmost of the vineyards of Lucienne and located at the highest elevation, with the least influence from marine fog. Clones are Mt. Eden, Jardini, Pommard 5 and 2A. 100% de-stemmed, 3-day cold soak, proprietary yeast, aged 13 months in 42% new and 58% neutral French oak barrels. · Moderately dark reddish-purple color in the glass. Intoxicating aromas of fresh black cherries, dark red berries, cardamom spice and a hint of toasty oak. Discreetly concentrated flavors of dark cherries and berries with a complimentary riff of spice and oak. Outstanding harmony, very smooth and sensual, with an appealing cherry tang on the juicy and lengthy finish. The wine continues to pick up charm over time in the glass. Very easy to drink now, but should get even better with another year in bottle. Very impressive, even extraordinary. Score: 95. Reviewed November 9, 2013 ARTICLE »
2009 Lucienne Doctor’s Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.58, TA 0.63, 647 cases, $50. Released May 2011.11 different clones of Pinot Noir planted in this vineyard of 243 acres including Calera, 828, 777 and Swan. Aged in 35% new French oak barrels. · Moderate reddish-purple robe. Aromas of ripe raspberries and cherries. Tasty core of cherries, red plums and vanilla. A lighter, elegantly styled wine with a lingering fruit presence on the bright finish. Good (+). Reviewed August 13, 2011 ARTICLE »
2009 Lucienne Doctor’s Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.58, TA 0.63, 647 cases, $50. Released May 2011.Aged in 35% new French oak barrels. · Moderately dark reddish-purple color in the glass. This wine pushes the ripeness envelope with aromas of black cherries, black raspberries and black currants accented by spice, sandalwood and vanilla, and flavors that mimic the aromas with an added undertone of smoky oak and anise. Very silky and harmonious with a satisfying fullness on the palate. Score: 87. Reviewed November 9, 2013 ARTICLE »
2009 Lucienne Lone Oak Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.70, TA 0.61, 138 cases, $50. Released May 2011. 146 acres planted to clones 777, 115, Pommard, 2A and 667. Aged in 35% new French oak barrels. · Moderate reddish-purple color in the glass. Muted fruit on the nose with prominent smoky oak. Medium weighted array of spicy dark red fruits, with notes of oak-derived vanillin, smoke and tar. No change the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. A bit muddled now. Decent. Reviewed August 13, 2011 ARTICLE »
2009 Lucienne Lone Oak Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.70, TA 0.61, 138 cases, $50. Released May 2011. Aged in 35% new French oak barrels. · Moderately dark reddish-purple color in the glass. The nose is alive with aromas of cherry pie, black grape and plum with hints of spice and smoky oak. Rich and fruit-driven on the palate with an array of very ripe dark cherry and berry fruits backed by smoky oak. Very polished tannins, a soothing mouth feel and a big finish that really hangs on. Score: 89. Reviewed November 9, 2013 ARTICLE »
2007 Lucienne Doctor’s Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.8% alc.. · Moderately deep reddish-purple robe in the glass. Very attractive nose replete with spiced berries. An extremely charming wine with the berry fruit core enhanced with notes of spice, cola and chocolate. Discretely rich, beautifully balanced, with an appealing elegance. Very good. Reviewed April 8, 2010 ARTICLE »
2007 Lucienne Lone Oak Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
700 cases, $45. The top wine of the tasting for me and my panel. · Very enticing aromas of cherries with an underlying minerality. Velvety and delicious with a classy core of silky red and black fruits that have a tremendous breadth in the middle palate and a remarkably persistent aromatic persistence. The mouthfeel is soft and seductive and the wine is beautifully balanced. The whole package. Reviewed January 27, 2011 ARTICLE »
2006 Lucienne Vineyards Doctor’s Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., 347 cases, $35. Vineyard planted in 2002. 100% de-stemmed, cold soak for 3 days, inoculated with BGY yeast, fermented in 3-ton open top fermenters, punched down three times a day, pressed with a basket press. Aged 12 months in 47% new and 53% neutral French oak barrels. · Deep rich nose of fresh plum tart with near port aromas. Brambly, earthy and rich dark stone fruit flavors with a riff of raisin and oak, framed by soft tannins and good acidity. The fruit approaches but does not cross over into over ripeness. Reviewed April 18, 2009 ARTICLE »
2006 Lucienne Lone Oak Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., 217 cases, $45. This is the high-end label from Hahn Estates in the Santa Lucia Highlands (see feature later in this issue). This wine represents a special selection from small blocks of Lone Oak Vineyard crafted by winemaker Paul Clifton. Aged in 50% new French oak. · This beauty has a vibrant black cherry fruitiness with interesting notes of coffee and leather. Very plush and velvety in the mouth with a fresh, lively and lengthy finish. Evocative and very satisfying. Reviewed April 18, 2009 ARTICLE »
2006 Lucienne Vineyards Lone Oak Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., 217 cases, $45. Vineyard planted in 2001. 100% de-stemmed, lightly crushed, 3 day cold soak, fermented in 3-ton open top fermenters, inoculated with EC1118 yeast, punched down three times a day. Free run put to barrel, wine was pressed using a basket press, aged 12 months in 50% new and 50% neutral French oak barrels. · A thoroughly enjoyable wine with attractive spiced black cherries on the nose, dark cherries and raspberries on the palate framed by notes of coffee, leather and brown spice, augmented by supple tannins and ending with a lasting and silky finish. Reviewed April 18, 2009 ARTICLE »