The wine's character is shaped by the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley's unique terroir, featuring low-vigor, clay-rich soils that yield small quantities of grapes. Our Pinot noir is not overtly fruity, soft and “sweet” and it generally shows hints of that alluring savoury “primal” character along with a dark, spicy, complex primary fruit perfume. After 10 months in 31% new French oak, it achieves a balanced, food-friendly finish, making it an excellent pairing for various dishes. Winemaker Emul Ross continues the legacy of his father, Tim Hamilton Russell, who founded the estate in 1975, emphasizing a commitment to elegance and spice in their wines.
95 Natalie MacLean From Hemel En Aarde Valley wine region, Hamilton Russell 2023 Pinot Noir is produced from sustainably grown grapes. Dry, medium-bodied, spicy and savoury on the palate with ripe cranberry, earthy mushroom, herbs and citrus zest flavours, it is matched with amazing acidity and framed by firm and structured tannins It does need a bit more time to unwind. Try it from 2025 to drink through 2031.
94 Tim Atkin MW Emul Ross and proprietor Anthony Hamilton Russell are not afraid to make Pinot noirs with structure and staying power, even in a wetter vintage like 2023. This has plenty of colour, lots of spicy Francois Freres oak, some underlying ferrous trip, savoury tannins and flavours of plum and black cherry. Substantial, but give it time.
94 Decanter There's lovely purity of red berry and cherry fruit on the nose, woven through with earthier savoury and spice hints. That savoury nuance persists on the elegant palate, alongside delicate raspberry and red cherry notes, with fine tannins and a whisper of smoke that emphasises the persistent mineral character. Still young, this will age beautifully.
93 James Suckling #93 James Suckling's Top 100 Wines of South Africa 2024. A tight, spicy and savory pinot noir that has aromas of herbal tea, citrus rind, rust, cranberries and wild mushrooms. It’s medium-bodied, firm and well framed. Long and focused.
91 Vinous Fresh and vibrant, the palate is medium-bodied with crunchy red fruit, a crisp line of acidity and a touch of sour cherry on the finish. Very fine.
