Hamilton Russell Vineyards Chardonnay 2019

While a fire in early-January of 2019 meant that Hemel-en-Aarde Valley property Hamilton Russell Vineyards was forced to make its Pinot Noir largely with grapes purchased from elsewhere, the Chardonnay vineyards were less affected although volumes were reduced. Tasting notes and ratings as follows:

Despite the difficult circumstances, the resulting wine is rather good. Fermented and matured for nine months in 93% 228-litre barrels about a quarter new and 7% foudre, the nose shows lemon and orange plus some leesy complexity while the palate is surprisingly rich given a moderate alcohol of 13.2% – great purity of fruit and nicely integrated acidity before a finish which is long and savoury. Lots and lots going on. Price: R550 a bottle.

CE’s rating: 94/100.

Hamilton Russell Walker Bay Pinot Noir 2019
From 16% Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, 37% Upper Hemel-en-Aarde Valley and 47% Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge grapes. The nose shows red cherry plus hints of rose, earth and spice while the palate is light and fresh with crunchy tannins. Has an appealing readiness about it. Price: R550 a bottle.

CE’s rating: 90/100.

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