From low-vigour, stony, clay-rich soil in a cool maritime mesoclimate, these vines produce naturally tiny yields of well under 35 hl/ha and lend to Hamilton Russell's philosophy of expressing their unique terroir in their wines. It gives rise to a certain tightness, tannin line and elevated length to balance the richness and generosity of Pinot noir. Rather than being overtly fruity, soft and sweet, it generally shows hints of that alluring, savoury primal character along with a dark, spicy, complex primary fruit perfume.
"The 2020 Hamilton Russell Vineyards Pinot Noir is in a league of its own, surely the finest Pinot in all the Cape and nothing short of a grand cru if such a thing existed in South Africa. It’s not just the wonderful fruit, nurtured by long, hot days and cooling sea breezes; it’s the structure too. Like a fine Gevrey Chambertin it needs time but, goodness, it’s a belter." Jonathan Ray, The Spectator
Hamilton Russell Vineyards Pinot Noir
From low-vigour, stony, clay-rich soil in a cool maritime mesoclimate, these vines produce naturally tiny yields of well under 35 hl/ha and lend to Hamilton Russell's philosophy of expressing their unique terroir in their wines. It gives rise to a certain tightness, tannin line and elevated length to balance the richness and generosity of Pinot noir. Rather than being overtly fruity, soft and sweet, it generally shows hints of that alluring, savoury primal character along with a dark, spicy, complex primary fruit perfume.
"The 2020 Hamilton Russell Vineyards Pinot Noir is in a league of its own, surely the finest Pinot in all the Cape and nothing short of a grand cru if such a thing existed in South Africa. It’s not just the wonderful fruit, nurtured by long, hot days and cooling sea breezes; it’s the structure too. Like a fine Gevrey Chambertin it needs time but, goodness, it’s a belter." Jonathan Ray, The Spectator
Hamilton Russell Vineyards Pinot Noir