Hamilton Russell, Pinot Noir, 2023

Savoury, Spicy, and complex Pinot Noir from Hemel-en-Aarde Valley

This Pinot Noir shows a natural tightness and structure, with a firm tannin line and elevated length - a result of low-vigour, stony, clay- and iron-rich soils, a cool maritime mesoclimate, and very low yields of under 35 hl/ha. The wine is not overtly fruity, soft, or sweet. Instead, it offers a dark, spicy, and complex primary fruit perfume, complemented by an alluring, savoury, almost primal character. A clear expression of terroir-driven winemaking.

• Aged10 Months in 228 litre French Oak Barrels
• 94Pts, Tim Atkin MW
• 93Pts James Suckling
• pH: 3.65
• Residual Sugar: 1.60 g/l

STORY BEHIND THE WINE

Harvest dates for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay were almost uncannily in-line with 2021 and 2022 and our long-term average. But whereas Pinot noir experienced even and easy bud-break, Chardonnay suffered from fewer winter cold units (a particular susceptibility of the variety) and not only had uneven bud-break, but one of our lowest yields in 10 years. This required careful triage, generally three passes per vineyard. Natural acids were very good for both Pinot noir and Chardonnay. At 24.18 centigrade for the average maximum temperatures for the 4 “hottest” months (Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar) building up to and during harvest, 2023 was one of our coolest years on record. Burgundy for the equivalent period has an average of 24.66 Centigrade. For those lucky enough to harvest before the substantial late season rains, 2023 produced vibrant, energetic but textured wines with wonderful natural acidity. An excellent result for a vintage that was not without its challenges.