Hamilton Russel Pinot Noir 2023
Pinot Noir
Description
Hamilton Russell Vineyards is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of cool-climate winegrowing in South Africa. The estate lies in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley near Hermanus, only about 1.5 km from the cold South Atlantic Ocean, where maritime breezes moderate temperatures and help maintain freshness in the grapes.
Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are the estate’s sole focus, grown on low-vigour, clay-rich, shale-derived soils that closely resemble the clay soils of Burgundy. These soils naturally restrict vine growth and encourage small yields, producing fruit with concentration and structure.
The Hamilton Russell Vineyards Pinot Noir 2023 is made entirely from estate vineyards and matured for 10 months in 228-litre French oak barrels, allowing the wine to develop complexity while preserving purity of fruit. The estate style is deliberately classical - aiming for structure, savoury nuance and length rather than overt sweetness or fruitiness.
Colour:
Bright ruby with a translucent garnet core, typical of refined Pinot Noir from cool climates.
Nose:
Perfumed aromas of red cherry, wild strawberry and pomegranate lead the bouquet. These are layered with subtle notes of spice, forest floor and a gentle savoury character that adds depth.
Palate:
Medium-bodied with a finely textured structure. Fresh red berry fruit sits at the centre, supported by vibrant acidity and a delicate but persistent tannin line. Savoury hints of spice and earth bring complexity without overshadowing the fruit.
Finish:
Long and poised, finishing with lingering red fruit, subtle spice and a distinctly mineral edge that reflects the estate’s clay-rich soils.
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Hamilton Russel Pinot Noir 2023
- Food Pairing : The elegance and savoury detail of Hamilton Russell Vineyards Pinot Noir 2023 make it particularly suited to refined but flavourful dishes. Roast duck with cherry glaze works beautifully, as the wine’s red fruit echoes the sweetness of the sauce while its acidity balances the richness of the meat. It also pairs well with herb-roasted chicken or grilled pork loin, where the wine’s structure complements the gentle char and savoury flavours. For a vegetarian option, try mushroom risotto or roasted wild mushrooms - the earthy character of the dish highlights the wine’s subtle forest-floor complexity.
- Drink before: Cellaring potential: 10–15 years from vintage.
- Vintage: 2023
- Manufacturer: Hamilton Russel
- Region: Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, Walker Bay, Western Cape
- Medals Won: Tim Atkin MW: 94 points. Platter’s South African Wine Guide: 4.5 Stars. 94 points: Julie Sheppard, Decanter 2024. 91 points: Neal Martin, Vinous 2024. 93 points: James Suckling. 95 points: Natalie MacLean.
- Grapes used to make this wine were grown in: Clay-rich, shale-derived soils.
- Sugar Content: 1.6g/L
- Alcohol Content: 13.52%
Stock and Delivery:
In Stock: Standard delivery within 5 days
Stock at supplier: Delivery within 10 - 15 days
R99 Nationwide
Free Delivery: On orders over R2 000
Our Guarantee:
We guarantee a full credit on the cost of the wine, no questions asked, and we will also collect the remainder of any pack and refund you in full if you are unhappy with the quality, the service or any aspect of Wine-of-the-Month Club.
Replacements:
In the unlikely event that there is a broken bottle in your case, please tell us immediately and we will credit your account. We reserve the right to substitute product if stock runs out, to the same or higher value of the stock.
Please note:
These figures are subject to change.