Young Hagen produces wines of distinction from carefully selected vineyard sites. Committed to crafting wines that tell the story of each vineyard’s unique site expression and vintage. In addition to Young Hagen, winemaker/proprietor Tim Beranek is Director of Winemaking at Thomas Rivers Brown Winemaking.
Jim Riddle owns and farms this vineyard just Northeast of Occidental on Stoetz Lane, just seven miles from the ocean. Overlooking Green Valley to the East, Riddle sits just at the morning fog line and sees the sun from late morning until coastal winds return the cool evening air. Planted in 2007, the vines are now fully mature and producing pristine fruit.
Ruby red in color. 14.2% ABV. Charming nose of red fruits, baking spices, earth and a hint of citrus. Medium body with medium acidity. Very approachable with warm, supple fruits. Cherry, cranberry, stewed tomatoes and minerals on the palate. Exceptional length on the finish. My first Young Hagen and there is much to like here. Ready to go over the next year or so.
My rating: 92 points.
I’ve had Young Hagen recommended to me many times in the last few years and as such signed up for the mailing list recently. The wines are fairly priced and from exceptional vineyards and I look forward to following this project in the years to come.