Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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PinotReport
Moderate reddish purple hue in the glass. The classy nose offers aromas of black cherry, spice, seasoned barrique and mushroom. A blast of cherry greats the palate in the primarily redfruited, mid weight wine. Not quite the fruit intensity of the other 2013 Maggy Hawk wines, but still impresses with great harmony, cashmere tannins, and a lip-smacking fi nish. The wine was still pumping out engaging aromas the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle.
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Wine Enthusiast
The color of this wine is deep and dark, and the aromas and flavors both have lots of plump black cherry, baking spice and clove tones. It's dry, full bodied and pretty massive in terms of mouthfeel, so this is not a delicate flower and is best enjoyed with heartier fare or after some time to open.
Anderson Valley, located in Mendocino County just above Sonoma County, is one of California’s coolest AVAs, allowing it a long growing season. Only 15 miles long, the region makes a slice eastward through the mountains, from the frigid Pacific Ocean. Dramatic diurnal temperature variations here preserve grape acidity and thus freshness in the finished wines. These are prime conditions for growing Pinot Noir, and the valley produces many fine versions. Characteristics of Anderson Valley Pinot Noir typically include crisp acidity, cranberry and strawberry notes as well as earthy notes of forest floor and mushroom.
Still Pinot Noir, however, is only part of the story. Pinot Noir, along with Chardonnay, are also grown for Anderson Valley’s exceptional sparkling wines. Produced via the traditional method, these offer a classic toasty note from lees aging, bright, complex fruit notes and a clean, refreshing character.