Hamilton Russell Vineyards Hamilton Russell Pinot Noir

Hemel-en-Aarde – the name means "Heaven and Earth" and describes the seclusion of the valley behind Hermanus at the southern tip of Africa. This is exactly where Hamilton Russell Vineyards is located, and nowhere else in South Africa does Pinot Noir grow under similarly cool, Burgundian-like conditions.

Anthony Hamilton Russell established the winery in 1975 – a pioneer at the time who recognized the potential of this wind-swept coastal site. Today, his son Tim manages the clay-shale-containing, weathered shale soils that give the wine its unmistakable minerality. The vintage expression is the focus: no cosmetic use of new wood, no manipulations.

In the glass, the wine shows a deep ruby red. On the nose, sour cherry and dried raspberry dominate, underneath an earthy note – damp leaves, a hint of mushroom. With some air, the wine opens up to graphite and mild spice. Firmly structured on the palate, with tannins that have grip without appearing hard. The acidity is present and keeps the wine lively. Long, salty finish.

Serving suggestion: Serve at 16–17 °C. Pairs with duck breast with cherries, rack of lamb with rosemary butter, or aged Époisses.