Offers a lovely mix of gently steeped cherry, plum and raspberry fruit flavors, infused with singed anise, black tea and incense notes. A light mineral edge underscores the finish and the acidity is finely beaded. Drink now through 2021.
Fresh red cherries, blueberries, rose petals, stems, nutmeg, licorice and spice box. Medium to full body, refined tannins, savory undertones and a caressing finish. Lovely tension to this. So refined and elegant. Drink now.
After the uncomfortably warm 2016 season, 2017 was more balanced and temperate in Walker Bay and its three key Hemel-en-Aarde wards, of which this is the lowest and most maritime. The wine is translucent red in colour, with dark, alluring plum and raspberry fruits and soft spice. On the palate the wine is intense, vivid and fresh, with the lyricism and lift which should always characterise this variety, and without the over-dry, abrupt finish and lingering fruitless warmth which can often creep into Pinot produced under very sunny skies. You find ample gathered intensity and energy of fruit here, but no clumsiness. That finesse lasts through to a graceful, stealthy finish. In contrast to other producers, Anthony Hamilton Russell doesn’t believe in cherry-picking individual parcels for a series of special cuvée wines, so this is a synopsis of the best of the estate’s Pinot fruit.
Pronounced aromas of mentholated herbs and fynbos dance on the nose of this excellent wine, with supporting tones of forest floor, tilled soil, red currant and cherry. Medium in weight and plush in feel, it offers framing tannins that lend a solid grip to the palate and finish, while a kiss of warming spice graces the close. Well balanced and structured, it's attractive now, but will mature well through 2029.
The 2017 Pinot Noir, which includes 12% whole bunches, matured for 10 months in 37% new oak (François Frères). It has a light red currant and cranberry bouquet with just a hint of rooibos in the background, the oak nicely integrated. The palate is medium-bodied with slightly grainy tannin, crisp tart red cherry mixed with raspberry fruit and a nicely structured finish. Fine.
Winery Notes
A modern, well-crafted version, showing good harmony overall and a seductive palate, exhibiting dark cherry flavors and hints of clove and vanilla, while mineral and floral accents take the back seat. Solid finish.
