Storm new releases

Relative to the high standards that Hannes Storm has set for himself, his three examples of Pinot Noir from the 2021 vintage were a shade underwhelming – see here. “It was the last vintage impacted by the drought and yields were exceptionally low,” he says.

As for 2022, Storm says he “couldn’t have wished for anything more”. Rainfall in the winter of 2021 amounted to 1,200mm in the general Hemel-en-Aarde area compared to a long-term average of 825mm resulting in vines that were “fertile, balanced and happy” come the growing season, yields appreciably up. The resulting wines he describes as showing “more concentration and fullness”. Tasting notes and ratings as follows:

Vrede Pinot Noir 2022
Price: R749
Grapes from a Hemel-en-Aarde Valley vineyard planted in 2008 on shale. Relatively shy aromatics – hints of dark cherry, earth and spice. The palate has great depth of fruit, bright acidity and tightly packed, quite firm tannins. A powerful example of the variety, the finish long and dry. Alc: 13.5%.

CE’s rating: 95/100.

Ignis Pinot Noir 2022
Price: R749
Grapes from a Upper Hemel-en-Aarde Valley vineyard planted in 2008 on granite. Alluring aromatics of red cherry, wild strawberry, fynbos and spice while the palate is light but detailed. An elegant vintage with zesty acidity and powdery tannins. Alc: 13.5%

CE’s rating: 96/100.

Ridge Pinot Noir 2022
Price: R749
Grapes from a Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge vineyard planted in 2009 on shale. Complex aromatics with red and black berries, floral perfume, musk and a touch of mushroom while the palate is pure and poised – great clarity of fruit, wonderfully energetic and silky tannins. All of a piece. Alc: 13.5%.

CE’s rating: 97/100.

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