Crystallum Cuvée Cinema Pinot Noir 2015
By Christian Eedes, 27 July 2016
The 2015s of Peter-Allan Finlayson’s various takes on Pinot Noir under the Crystallum label were recently released and suffice to say, the hype surrounding this vintage seems very much justified. Tasting notes and ratings as follows:
Crystallum Peter Max Pinot Noir 2015
Wine Cellar price: R215
Grapes sourced from Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge, Overberg and Kaaimansgat. Matured for nine months in French oak, 10% new. Red and black cherries, musk, a subtle and intriguing note of reduction and plenty of Syrah-like spice. Rich and full but not short of freshness, the oak well judged. None too esoteric, which is to say very drinkable.
#WinemagRating: 91/100.
Crystallum Mabalel Pinot Noir 2015
Wine Cellar price: R395
From a Kaaimansgat vineyard. 10% whole-bunch fermentation, matured for 11 months in 500-litre French oak barrels, 25% new. Red cherries, fresh herbs and spice on the nose. Lovely fruit purity, fresh acidity and fine tannins – light and pretty.
#WinemagRating: 93/100.
Crystallum Cuvée Cinema Pinot Noir 2015
Wine Cellar price: R395
From a Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge vineyard. 30% whole-bunch fermentation, matured for 11 months in 228- and 500-litre French oak barrels, 35% new. A complex nose showing red and black fruit, musk, roses, spice and attractive oak. Great fruit concentration balanced by tangy acidity – possesses real depth and might even be described as hearty. The most convincing SA Pinot yet?
#WinemagRating: 94/100.
Crystallum Bona Fide Pinot Noir 2015
Wine Cellar price: R395
From a Hemel-en-Aarde Valley vineyard. 40% whole-bunch fermentation, matured for 11 months in 228-litre French oak barrels, 30% new. A brooding nose showing black cherry, spice and oak but also earth and undergrowth. Full bodied with fresh acidity and firm tannins. A little awkward at this stage.
#WinemagRating: 90/100.
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