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I recently served the Elgin Vintners Pinot Noir at a tasting, a time during which I was slightly wary of serving Pinot Noir because it is not a wine that falls in the taste profile of everyone. When I poured this wine, I gave all the hints that point to a Pinot Noir: light raspberry red colour, red fruits on the nose and mushrooms on the palate. Yet, the response was not what I expected. Instead of shout-outs of “Pinot Noir”, I got “wow, this is good!” I puzzled forty people with not a single one trying Pinot Noir as the grape variety. Why? Because it was so fresh, flavoursome with red fruits and perfectly balanced.
This wine has a clear, light red colour and medium complexity on the nose with red fruits such as strawberries and raspberries, with hints of mushrooms and forest floor. It is extremely delicate on the palate and delivers well what it promises on the nose: strawberries, raspberries and some sour red cherries. The complexity develops to a more earthy note of mushrooms and a soft mouthfeel, probably due to some malolactic conversion. It has a spicy finish with hints of tobacco leaves.
The cool climate of the Elgin Valley is ideal for this grape which is extremely difficult to grow. This is a great wine that you should try, even if Pinot Noir is not your preferred variety. I suggest that this wine is enjoyed as soon as possible but it can be left in the cellar for 3-5 years. It should be served slightly chilled and can be enjoyed with carpaccio, turkey, pork ribs and a medley of mushrooms. This wine is available from Partners in Wine.
Producer: Elgin Vintners
Variety: Pinot Noir 100%
Vintage: 2021
Origin: Elgin, Western Cape, South Africa
Winemaker: Max Hahn, James Rawbone-Viljoen
Closure: Cork
Alcohol: 13.5%
RS: 3.1g/l
Average price: R350
Rating: 93/100
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