Artisan Wine & Spirits® Maggy Hawk – 6045646454943

Notes from the Winemaker:
There are those who exclaim that adversity is tantamount to greatness in Pinot Noir, an aphorism that is certainly true of the Maggy Hawk site in Anderson Valley, a steeply sloped vineyard situated adjacent to the dark, cool underbelly of the coastal Redwoods.

The name is also a tribute to proprietor Barbara Banke’s favorite thoroughbred horse Maggy Hawk, a proven racer in her time. Each of the Pinot Noirs from the vineyard is named for the four horses born to the mare: Jolie, Afleet, Stormin’ and Unforgettable, and to her sire – Hawkster. The unique expression borne of training, bloodlines, site and alchemy applies equally to wine and horses – Pinot Noir and thoroughbreds in particular.

This southeast facing block is planted to clone 115. Year-in, year-out, Jolie emerges as the most nuanced, floral and pretty Pinot Noir from the vineyard, a nod to the striking beauty of Maggy Hawk’s long-limbed, dark brown filly.

Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate:
The 2011 Pinot Noir Jolie, from Dijon clone 115, spent 14 months in 47% new French oak. It displays a dark ruby color as well as a charming, up-front style with lots of blueberry, sweet and sour cherry, loamy, earthy undertones, and a medium-bodied, silky finish. This is a delicate, pretty style of Pinot Noir to drink over the next 3-4 years. (Dec. 2013)

Antonio Galloni’s Vinous Media:
Bright ruby. Spicy red fruits, anise and potpourri on the highly fragrant nose, which picks up a bright, minerally quality with aeration. Tight, nervy and pure, offering fresh raspberry and bitter cherry flavors that clamp down on the back half. Closes tight and long, with silky tannins building slowly and adding grip. — Stephen Tanzer (May 2014)