Culinaria Pinot Noir

Subtle tannins that compliment the fresh acidity of this wine result in an elegantly weighted wine exceptionally versatile in food-and-wine pairings. Duck with cranberry sauce and mushroom risotto are among favourites.

This Pinot Noir is a harmonious blend sourced from three distinct cool-climate vineyards. Forty percent comes from the elevated slopes of the Breedekloof Valley, contributing freshness, balance, and a deep purple hue, with an elegant, refined structure on the palate. Another 40% hails from Stellenbosch’s ocean-facing slopes near False Bay, bringing vibrant cherry fruit, bright acidity, and a lingering, expressive finish. The final 20% is sourced from Elim, where south-facing vineyards benefit from cooling ocean breezes from Cape Agulhas, adding savoury depth, crisp minerality, and a subtle touch of umami.

The wine was matured for 14 months in third- and fourth-fill barrels to preserve the delicate fruit character and enhance complexity.

The grapes were hand-picked at optimal ripeness (23.5°B) and vinified using traditional methods with minimal intervention. After crushing, the must underwent a 24-hour cold soak at 10°C to enhance colour and aroma extraction. Fermentation followed at temperatures between 22–24°C over eight days, after which the wine was pressed off the skins. Malolactic fermentation took place in seasoned 225L French oak barrels.

Leopard's Leap was conceptualised at the turn of the century by winemaker and businessman Hein Koegelenberg. With an initial international focus, the brand’s exceptional performance in the global market today sees it represented in more than 40 countries with dedicated marketing teams and distribution across Asia, the UK, Europe, North America and Africa. While consumers worldwide enjoy Leopard's Leap wines as an outstanding example of South African quality, it is at its Franschhoek home where guests are introduced to the accessible and versatile wine portfolio and the ways in which Leopard's Leap wines can be enjoyed as part of an everyday quality lifestyle.