Situated adjacent to the redwoods and one of the last vineyards before one reaches the Pacific, the Maggy Hawk vineyard is in what many refer to as the “deep end” of Anderson Valley. The vineyard contains a complex patchwork of different facings, slopes, and clones, all of which conspire to provide a dazzling array of different Pinot Noirs. The soil is comprised of decomposed sandstone, known for exceptional drainage and low nutrients, both critical to the development of naturally balanced vines.

This Pinot Noir is big, rich, complex, and assertive. The color in the glass is medium ruby. Out of the glass the Stormin’ Pinot Noir shows expressions of lavender, black cherry, dark chocolate aromas which intermingle with toasted chestnuts, ginger, and a hint of mushroom. On the palate there are bold red and black fruit flavors, wonderful texture, tart acidity, a joyous mouthfeel, and round polished tannins which give way to a long generous finish. All of nuances from this very well-made Pinot Noir from Maggy Hawk shows that the wine will age well for years to come. But I would find it very hard to wait!

By Perry Miroballi