Hamilton Russell Pinot Noir 2022

The Hamilton Russell Pinot Noir is one of the most iconic Pinot Noirs from South Africa. The winery is one of the most southernly estates in Africa and one of the closest vineyards to the sea. They only produce Chardonnay and Pinot Noir since 1991, varieties that thrive in the clay rich soils of their land in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. I often compare drinking a Hamilton Russell Pinot Noir in South Africa to eating a Belgian waffle in Belgium. There is a good quantity of stock of this wine available to the international and local market (just under 30 000 bottles made) and it is popular among wine-loving tourists.

In the glass, this wine has a light red colour that is typical of most Pinot Noirs. It has a complex nose of strawberries, rose petals, redcurrant and fresh mushrooms. On the palate, it has a very fresh entry with red fruits coming forward: strawberries, raspberries, pomegranate and spices). The fruitiness is followed by a hint of earthiness, but this wine is more fruit-forward than some of its counterparts that have heavy earthy notes that often dominates the wine. The Hamilton Russell Pinot Noir has just the right complexity to offer a great balance between the two components: fruit and earthiness. It has a long. dry and complex fruity finish. It spent 10 months in 228 litre French oak barrels, contributing to the ideal complexity of this wine.

This wine can be enjoyed slightly chilled, on its own or with a wide variety of dishes: salmon, lamb chops and ostrich steaks. This wine is vegan friendly. It is best enjoyed with its Chardonnay companion. Although slightly on the more expensive side, this wine is worth a try and will certainly not disappoint.

Producer: Hamilton Russell Vineyards

Variety: Pinot Noir 100%

Vintage: 2022

Origin: Hermanus, Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, Western Cape, South Africa

Winemaker: Emul Ross

Closure: Cork

Alcohol: 13.30%

RS:1.7 g/l

Average price: R750

Rating: 95/100