Creation Estate Pinot Noir 2022: South African Elegance

Pinot Noir from South Africa still sounds unnatural to most drinkers. The Creation Estate Pinot Noir 2022 from the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley clears that up in one glass. Walker Bay sits close to the Atlantic Ocean; cool climate and slow ripening. For Pinot Noir that’s the difference between elegant Burgundian style and the heavy-jammy New World version.

Vineyard and harvest

Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, Walker Bay, on a plateau directly exposed to oceanic influence. The cool wind keeps the grapes acidic while they ripen phenolically. Ten to twelve months élevage in French oak, of which 25% new. Light filtration before bottling.

Tasting notes

Light ruby, classic Pinot in the glass. The nose carries ripe red fruit — raspberry and cherry — with dried green herbs, leather, tobacco and a soft wood touch. On the palate fruity and refined: raspberry, chocolate, dry herbs, an earthy under-layer where the clay shows through. Medium tannins, medium-plus acidity. Also serves chilled in summer at 14°C.

About Creation Wines

Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, cool climate under Atlantic influence. Creation was the first South African winery to plant virus-free vines. Specialises in Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, the grapes that thrive on this site.

Verdict

€20-25 for a Pinot Noir that holds its own next to good entry-level Burgundy. For drinkers who still know South Africa only through Stellenbosch Cabernets, a direct entry to the cool side of the country.

Grape: 100% Pinot Noir | Origin: Walker Bay, Hemel-en-Aarde | NL import: vinites.com | Producer: creationwines.com

Thanks to Vinites for the bottle.