Gifford Hirlinger

Sort By:

Gifford Hirlinger 2007 Stateline Red (Walla Walla Valley (WA))

Price $16

This is a 50-50 blend of estate-grown Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, aged in neutral oak. Dark, plush, well-ripened fruit is the focus of a wine still a bit stiff and steely. It’s classic in the way a Bordeaux is classic, firm and confidently blended. — P.G. (5/1/2010)

points

Gifford Hirlinger 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon (Walla Walla Valley (WA))

Price $28

This is 100% varietal—angular and stiff, offering nicely woven scents of herb, toast, and black cherry. The flavors continue with hints of coffee, cinnamon, vanilla and tobacco. — P.G. (5/1/2010)

points

Gifford Hirlinger 2005 Merlot (Walla Walla Valley (WA))

Price $26

This limited (350 case) release is 86% Merlot, the rest Cabernet Sauvignon. There is significant influence from new oak barrels, and the wine is better for it. The oak sharpens the edges and adds tannic definition, with a lightly toasty finish. The fruit is light and pleasant. — P.G. (5/1/2008)

points

Gifford Hirlinger 2005 Stateline Red (Walla Walla Valley (WA))

Price $22

This is 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, aged in neutral oak. It’s bright and peppery and lightly herbal, with tart strawberry and cherry tomato flavors. — P.G. (5/1/2008)

points

Gifford Hirlinger 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon (Walla Walla Valley (WA))

Price $28

This is 80% Cabernet and 20% Merlot, and hits just 12.6% alcohol—unusually low. It tastes a bit thin, either young vines or high yields or both. The wine is balanced but lacks focus; it shows tart cranberry fruit and just a hint of spice. — P.G. (5/1/2008)

points

Gifford Hirlinger 2008 Estate Merlot (Walla Walla Valley (WA))

Online Exclusive

Price $22

A candied nose introduces light fruit and there’s and impression of some residual sugar on the finish. With extra breathing time tobacco and vanilla notes emerge, but the fruit is ephemeral. — P.G. (7/1/2012)

Most Reviewed Designations

-18° Below Estate Stateline Red

Most Reviewed Varietals

Bordeaux-style Red Blend Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot Petit Verdot Petite Verdot Red Blend Tempranillo

2010 Mira Stanly Ranch

Winemaker Gustavo Gonzalez left Robert Mondavi to do his own thing, and…

(Sponsored)