2021 PINOT NOIR, Family Vineyards, Newton Johnson, Hemel-en-Aarde. South Africa

Hemel-en-Aarde is the name of the valley above Hermanus. The larger region is called Walker Bay and Hamilton Russell were the people who made it famous – as a cool climate source of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, back when South Africa was only learning how to make wines of freshness and balance.

100% Pinot Noir (a selection of their best vineyards); 20% fermented as whole bunches; matured in French oak for 11 months.

Founded by Dave Johnson and Felicity Newton (now Johnson) in 1995 and now run by sons, Bevan and Gordon. They have just unde 20 hectares of land at 150-300m.

Elegance and subtlety are not descriptions you would necessarily associate with South African reds….but they are exemplified here.

Tim Atkin MW: “The length of the 2020 growing season helped to produce Pinots with excellent balance and precision. This four vineyard blend – from Mrs M, Sandford, Seadragon and Windansea – is elegant, detailed and refined, with pale colour, wild strawberry, black tea and ginger flavours, electrifying minerality and savoury grip. 2022-2027.” 96 points