The 2023 Hamilton Russell Pinot Noir is a highly-regarded wine from the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley in South Africa, receiving positive reviews and high scores from critics.
Critical acclaim and scores
95 points from Natalie MacLean, who describes it as dry, medium-bodied, spicy and savory with ripe cranberry, earthy mushroom, herbs and citrus zest flavors.94 points from Tim Atkin MW, who notes its structure, spicy oak, ferrous hints, savory tannins, and flavors of plum and black cherry.94 points from Decanter, praising its purity of red berry and cherry fruit, savory nuances, delicate raspberry and red cherry notes, fine tannins, and persistent mineral character.93 points from James Suckling, describing a tight, spicy, and savory Pinot Noir with aromas of herbal tea, citrus rind, rust, cranberries, and wild mushrooms.91 points from Vinous, highlighting its freshness, vibrancy, medium body, crunchy red fruit, crisp acidity, and a touch of sour cherry on the finish.
Tasting notes
Aromas: Red berry and cherry fruit, earthy savory notes, spice, herbal tea, citrus rind, rust, cranberries, wild mushrooms, and hints of smoke.Palate: Tight, spicy, savory, elegant, with delicate raspberry and red cherry notes, fine tannins, and a persistent mineral character. Some tasters also detect notes of plum and black cherry.Structure: Medium-bodied, firm, and well-framed with fine tannins and a crisp line of acidity.
Production notes
The wine is produced from low-vigour, stony, clay-rich soil in a cool maritime climate, resulting in naturally tiny yields. It is aged for 10 months in 31% new French oak. The 2023 vintage was one of the coolest on record, leading to vibrant, energetic, and textured wines with excellent natural acidity.
Aging potential
This Pinot Noir is still young and is expected to age beautifully. Natalie MacLean recommends trying it from 2025 and drinking it through 2031.
In conclusion
The 2023 Hamilton Russell Pinot Noir is praised for its elegance, complexity, and structure. It offers a balance of red fruit, savory notes, and spice, framed by fine tannins and good acidity. This wine is still young and has excellent aging potential.
History
Hamilton Russell Vineyards – one of the most southerly wine Estates in Africa and one of the closest to the sea – pioneered viticulture and winemaking in the beautiful, cool, maritime Hemel-en-Aarde Valley appellation, just behind the old fishing village of Hermanus. Tim Hamilton Russell purchased the undeveloped 425-acre property in 1975, after an exhaustive search for the most southerly site on which to make South Africa’s top cool climate wines from a selection of noble varieties.
