Galpin Peak Pinot Noir

A wine of substance – generously structured for the long haul. Immediately expressive succulent plum, clove and nutmeg. Well defined and concentrated black olive tapenade and cranberry tart flavours, all elegantly packaged around an ever present kelp-like tannin. Velvety smooth finish.

It’s been remarked before how the weather, during recent odd vintages, seems to behave to the benefit of local vintners. 2021 followed this pattern of 2019, 2017 and 2015. Yields varied significantly between cultivars and apart from a big rain event on 14 March, dry and cool conditions prevailed during picking. Phenolic ripeness out performed sugar accumulation in the berries, resulting in juices with low potential alcohol and balanced natural acidities. Eight Estate vineyards, ranging in age from ten to thirty years, contribute to this expression of PinotNoir. Various clonal material also plays a role, but the classic Dijon 113, 115, 667 and 777 are predominant

Each vineyard plot is vinified separately, with emphasis placed on accentuating its distinctive characteristics. Blended after 11 months maturation in French oak,30% of which were new. Bottled, following 4 months elevage, in May 2022.

One of South Africa’s most awarded boutique wine estates lies in a scenic valley just an hour and a half from Cape Town called Hemel-en-Aarde or Heaven-and-Earth. Framed by great fold mountains and breath-taking ocean views it is one of the coolest wine-making regions in the Cape with duplex soil structures and sun-facing slopes. The promise of the unique terroir is harnessed by winemaker Chris Albrecht in slow-ripened flavour-rich wines of exceptional quality. Bouchard Finlayson is globally acclaimed for producing the best Pinot Noir in South Africa as well as exceptional Chardonnays and Sauvignon Blancs. The vineyards are surrounded by an indigenous floral conservancy alive with birdsong and wildflowers. Beyond the beauty of the farm itself you can discover the enchantments of the local area. Some of the popular attractions of nearby Hermanus include whale-watching; shark-cage diving; mountain hiking or biking; browsing art antiques and shops; and of course the white sandy beaches.