Product Overview
Winery's Notes:
"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."
Varietal Composition: 100% Pinot Noir
Appellation: WO Hemel-en-Aarde Valley
Aging: 10 months in French oak barrels, 33% new
Vegan Friendly
93+ Points - Wine Advocate
"Popping out of the glass with succulent dark red cherries and fresh potpourri essence, the 2022 Pinot Noir bursts with notes of wild herbs and turned earth. Medium-bodied, the palate offers flavors of black raspberry with a firm-gripping tannic edge. It shows seductive florals with spicy flavors and ends with a food-friendly finish. Just under 20,000 bottles were filled after 10 months of barrel aging in 36% new French oak." -AM, 12/29/23
92 Points - Wine Enthusiast
"The Hamilton Russell winery is a pioneer in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley and offers an elegant and spicy Pinot Noir. The nose opens with white pepper and nutmeg. An energized palate and tight tannins provide a good frame for strawberries, cherries and subtle dried herbs. Hints of cardamom appear in the aftertaste." -JV, 4/1/24
89 Points - Vinous
"The 2022 Pinot Noir underwent a slightly longer settling than previous vintages as the juice was clean, and they did not want to rack into barrel with too much solids. The generous bouquet has menthol-tinged red cherry fruit, perhaps less complex than the Chardonnay this year. The palate is medium-bodied with tart red cherry fruit and gentle grip. It’s very sapid and quite tannic in style, with just a touch of chewiness towards the finish. Fine." -NM, Aug/2023
