HARVEST NOTES

The 2019 vintage started somewhat abruptly, with a warm weather spike at the beginning of September that kicked harvest into high gear around the Anderson Valley. Compared to 2018, we saw a small decrease in yields overall, which helped develop the concentration in the berries and depth in the finished wines. Overall, it was a fantastic vintage with warmer temperatures and less rain than in previous years. The Maggy Hawk Pinot Noir blocks were individually hand-harvested in the early morning between September 21st and October 4th.

WINEMAKING

Our 2019 Afeet Pinot Noir is crafted from a unique selection of blocks and clones from all corners of the Maggy Hawk vineyard. Upon arriving at the winery, we separate the individual blocks and allow the grapes to cold soak for 5 days before raising the temperature and beginning fermentation. The fruit is then pressed very gently, and the free run is kept separate from the harder pressing and racked down to barrels. The wine is allowed to go through malolactic fermentation on its own before being left to age in 20% new French oak barrels for 16 months. Finished unfined and unfiltered.

TASTING NOTES

Wonderful breadth, depth, and personality in spades. Afleet incorporates five distinct blocks from the vineyard and incorporates 40% whole cluster fermentation to craft a wine with lifted floral notes and pleasantly rustic tannins. Blood orange, cardamom, passion fruit and mushroom aromas mingle and develop over time. A juicy palate complimented by bold rustic tannins and a vibrant acidity frame the wine and carry through to the finish.

94 POINTS

Jim Gordon, Wine Enthusiast, March 2022