2005 Pinot Noir
Sonoma Coast
Hurst Vineyard ($44)
The high-toned ripe raspberry and wild berry fruit has a wild, racy side, and this grows on you. The focus is tight, and the finish keeps repeating the rich berry themes. Drink now through 2012. 390 cases made.
Wine Spectator, Jul 31, 07

2005 Syrah
Sonoma Coast
Estate Vineyard

By Stephen Tanzer
Bright, medium ruby. Wild, highly aromatic nose melds black raspberry, violet face powder, lavender, pepper, leather and bacon fat; smells like a cross between Cote-Rotie and Cornas. Then juicy and intense, with tightly wound flavors of crushed dark fruits, leather, meat and minerals. I found myself wishing for a bit more flesh and expansiveness (the mid-palate doesn't quite deliver what the nose promises), but I love the wine's flavors. And this could only be syrah. The label says this is just 13.9% alcohol: is that legal on the North Coast? A fascinating wine that will merit a higher score if it unclenches with bottle aging.  91(+?)
Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar, Jun 07

2004 Pinot Noir
Sonoma Coast ($33)
Restrauteur and olive oil importer Stephen Singer decided a few years back that his next challenge was making top-notch Pinot Noir. This first vintage from Baker Lane suggests that he succeeded: It's cool-climate structure supports laser focused dark cherry flavors that last.
Food and Wine, Mar 07

2005 Pinot Noir
Good deep red. Aromas of plum, redcurrant, strawberry and earth. Sappy and nicely concentrated, with a chewy texture and tangy, spicy plum and bitter cherry flavors complemented by earthy low tones. Finishes with even tannins. This reminded me of a very good pinot from Oregon. 89
Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar, Jan/Feb 07

2004 Pinot Noir
Sonoma Coast
A beautiful Pinot Noir from former San Francisco wine retailer Stephen Singer. Made from grapes from the Hurst Family Twin Hill Ranch on the Sonoma Coast, this first vintage is supple and bright, with scents of earth and cassis, and a taste of dark juicy berries. What stands out most, though, is its harmony. A wine to drink with just about everything, but with a particular affinity for birds - roast duck or squab, braised duck legs - slow simmered stews and baby lamb chops.
Los Angeles Times, Nov 29, 06