There are single-vineyard wines, and then there are the Pinot Noirs of Maggy Hawk: Exquisite expressions of the various individual terroirs and terrains of the remarkable eponymous vineyard a stone’s throw from the Pacific Ocean, each one an embodiment of what exactly makes that particular patch of the planet so uniquely well-suited to the famously finicky grape variety. Below are my reviews of two of their beautiful 2013s, the Jolie and the Hawkster, both more than worth buying if you see them.
Maggy Hawk “Jolie” Pinot Noir 2013, Anderson Valley
352 cases
Primary Clone: 115
Subtle, almost creamy nose, with hints of cherry, spice, and melted black licorice root. On the palate, this is weighty yet cut through with perfectly balanced acidity, and the flavors of spiced red plum, black raspberry, and Ranier cherry lead to a finish with beguiling notes of sasparilla, floral pink peppercorn, and rose petals. Drink now and for another decade.
Maggy Hawk “Hawkster” Pinot Noir 2013, Anderson Valley
240 cases
Primary Clone: 2A
Aromas of wild berries, forest floor, and mushrooms are joined by oak spice and an almost imperceptible hint of cola, and turn to a palate of pure silk in texture, with excellent concentration and flavors of wild cherry, cranberry, a hint of vanilla pod and licorice, and rose petals starting to dry on the bush. Great power, balance, and concentration, yet all carried with remarkable finesse. Excellent. Drink now and for the next 12 year or more.