Pinot Noir
2024
Hamilton Russell Vineyards – one of the most southerly wine Estates in Africa and one of the closest to the sea – pioneered viticulture and winemaking in the beautiful, cool, maritime Hemel-en-Aarde Valley appellation, just behind the old fishing village of Hermanus. The Estate specialises in producing highly individual, terroir driven Pinot noir and Chardonnay, which are widely regarded as the best in South Africa and among the finest in the New World. Owner, Anthony Hamilton Russell took...
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Our low-vigour, stony, clay-rich soil, cool maritime mesoclimate, naturally tiny yields of well under 35 hl/ha and our philosophy of expressing our terroir in our wines – give rise to a certain tightness, tannin line and elevated length to balance the richness and generosity of our Pinot noir. Our Pinot noir is not overtly fruity, soft and "sweet" and it generally shows hints of that alluring savoury "primal" character along with a dark, spicy, complex primary fruit perfume.
The dramatic Cape Storm of 23/24 September resulted in reduced yields following uneven flowering, although the overall season was a little warmer than the cool 2023. Yields were 13.7hl/ha, with pH 3.68 and 12.75% alcohol. Yet despite all the challenges this Hamilton Russell Pinot Noir has lovely spice notes, combined with fruit ripeness, richness and very fine tannins. Long, lingering aftertaste. High class. Great aromatics.
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This elegant, gently earthy red has aromas and flavors of licorice, mushrooms, bark and red berries. It’s medium-bodied, fresh and juicy, with very fine tannins and subtle spice notes. Delicious now, but can hold.
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