CHAMONIX RESERVE PINOT NOIR
R230,00WHY IS IT SPECIAL?
Chamonix Reserve Pinot Noir represents one of South Africa’s best-attempted expressions of cool-climate Pinot — a challenging grape that needs care, site and technique. The combination of high-altitude Franschhoek vineyards, calcareous-clay soils, careful low-yield viticulture and minimalist, site-driven winemaking gives a wine that balances elegance, purity and terroir expression. It’s a serious Pinot that can offer both early charm and short- to medium-term cellaring potential, making it a compelling choice for collectors seeking South African Pinot Noir with a sense of placeREVIEWS/AWARDS
- Tim Atkin: 93/100
- Wine Enthusiast: 90/100
- Tom Cannavan: 90/100
- Vinum Wine Magazine: 16/20
TASTING NOTES:
Nose: A classic, inviting bouquet of cherry, wild red berries, wild strawberry, redcurrant and violet florals, layered with subtle spice and a hint of crushed black pepper and earthiness.
Palate: Medium-bodied with bright, juicy red-fruit flavours — sour cherry, wild strawberry and red berry — supported by fine, silky tannins, gentle oak spice, and a smooth, supple texture.
Finish: Clean, elegant and lingering, with persistent red fruit, a touch of savoury undergrowth and a refined, earthy note — reflecting a cool-climate Pinot Noir’s finesse rather than overripe heaviness.
CREATION PINOT NOIR
R285,00WHY IS IT SPECIAL?
Creation Pinot Noir stands out as a benchmark for South African cool‑climate Pinot — a wine that respects the subtlety and elegance of the grape rather than forcing fruit bombs. The estate’s commitment to terroir, modest yields, native‑yeast fermentation and restrained oak use yields a Pinot that’s refined, terroir‑driven, and versatile. For collectors, it offers a balanced mix of red‑fruited purity, savoury earthiness, mineral freshness and age‑worthy structure — all at a price point that remains remarkably accessible for a wine of this calibre.REVIEWS/AWARDS
- Tom Cannavan: 91/100
- Wine Enthusiast: 90/100
- Vinum Wine Magazine: 16/20
TASTING NOTES:
Nose: Medium-bodied and elegant, the palate delivers juicy red fruit (soft cherry, raspberry), with supple tannins, fresh acidity and a gentle earthy/mineral backbone. There can be subtle mushroom‑earthiness or herb‑leaf nuance, adding complexity and sophistication — not just fruit sweetness.
Palate: Clean, balanced and lingering — red‑fruit echoes, a soft savoury note, and refreshing acidity that leaves the palate alive and craving another sip. The balance means it’s enjoyable now but also worthy of short‑term ageing (3–5 years).
Finish: A long, lingering, and harmonious, with persistent notes of dark fruit, graphite, and subtle spice, leaving an impression of elegance, complexity, and age-worthiness — the hallmark of a collectable Opus One
GHOST CORNER PINOT NOIR
R339,00WHY IS IT SPECIAL?
Ghost Corner is special because it’s one of the more distinctive cool-climate Pinot Noirs to come from South Africa — using grapes grown in a remote, coastal terroir at the very southern reaches of the Cape. The combination of low-yield hillside vineyards, slate/limestone soils, and maritime climate gives a delicate balance of fruit, acidity, minerality and savoury complexity seldom seen in many New-World Pinots. The modest yields and careful vinification (use of whole cluster, mixed oak maturaton, restrained handling) result in a wine that offers both immediacy and short- to medium-term ageing potential — ideal both for early enjoyment and for a cellar bottle that can evolve gracefully over 3–6 years.REVIEWS/AWARDS
- Michelangelo International Wine & Spirits Awards: Gold (2021)
- International Wine & Spirit Competition: Silver (2021), Bronze (2020)
- International Wine Challenge: Silver (2020 & 2021), Commended (2022)
- Tim Atkin: 89/100
- Vinum Wine Magazine: 17/20
- Decanter World Wine Awards: 87/100
TASTING NOTES:
Nose: Bright wild berries — cherries, raspberries and cranberries — layered with a subtle vegetal/forest-floor edge, a hint of olive or smoky-herbal character, and soft earthy/mushroom nuances.
Palate: Silky and medium-bodied, with juicy red fruit (wild strawberry, cherry, raspberry), balanced by a fine tannin structure and a saline-mineral undertone that speaks of its maritime influence. There’s a gentle savoury note — earthy, a bit herbal — that gives complexity beyond just fruit.
Finish: Clean and lingering, with red-fruit echoes, a faint salty-chalky minerality, subtle oak spice, and a refined savoury finish — understated but persistent.
GLEN CARLOU PINOT NOIR
R235,00WHY IS IT SPECIAL?
Glen Carlou Pinot Noir stands out because it blends carefully managed vineyards, cool-climate influences, and a winery focus on terroir expression and sustainability. The estate’s block-by-block cultivation and infusion of modern winemaking under local stewardship (since 2016) demonstrate a commitment to quality, consistency and authenticity. Because of its balance — fruit purity, refreshing acidity, and elegance — this Pinot Noir is both delightful to drink young and worth cellaring for a few years to allow further integration and nuance to emerge.REVIEWS/AWARDS
- Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate: 97/100
TASTING NOTES:
Nose: Expect bright aromas of cranberry, pomegranate and raspberry, sometimes with subtle earthy touches or floral undertones.
Palate: Light to medium-bodied, with red cherry, raspberry and mild black-cherry fruit at the forefront; a touch of oak (when present) adds a delicate nutty or almond nuance, while silky tannins and fresh acidity give balance and length.
Finish: Bright and clean, with lingering red fruit, a modest earthy or almond-tinged note, and a smooth, approachable aftertaste — its acidity and structure helping it finish with elegance rather than heaviness.
HAMILTON RUSSEL PINOT NOIR
R734,00WHY IS IT SPECIAL?
Hamilton Russell Pinot Noir is one of South Africa’s benchmark cool-climate Pinots — it’s not just a varietal wine, but a pure expression of terroir. The estate’s philosophy, under Anthony Hamilton Russell and winemaker Emul Ross, is to channel the essence of their land rather than make overtly fruity wine: low yields, careful oak use, and a tight, stony vineyard all contribute to a wine that balances elegance, structure, and longevity.REVIEWS/AWARDS
- Tom Cannavan: 90/100
- Wine Spectator: 83/100
TASTING NOTES:
Nose: A complex bouquet combining dark red fruits — think red cherry and mulberry — with black truffle, forest floor and a subtle savoury “primal” edge.
Palate: Medium-bodied and finely structured, with precise red fruit such as cranberry and pomegranate, framed by firm but elegant tannins and a mineral, saline drive.
Finish: The finish is long, clean and lingering, with lingering earth, savoury spice, and a refined acidity that gives lift.
HAUTE CABRIERE PINOT NOIR RESERVE
R266,00WHY IS IT SPECIAL?
The Réserve expression is a refined showcase of Franschhoek Pinot Noir, blending purity of fruit with oak depth. Haute Cabrière’s philosophy is that the oak should support—not overpower—the delicate Pinot Noir, resulting in a wine that balances elegance, expression of place, and ageing potential.REVIEWS/AWARDS
- Tom Cannavan: 90/100
- Wine Spectator: 83/100
TASTING NOTES:
Nose: Red berries (cherry, redcurrant), hints of forest floor, and a smoky cigar-box nuance.
Palate: Savoury sour-cherry and red-berry fruit, fine-grained tannins, and a subtle spice character; balanced acidity keeps it fresh.
Finish: Smooth and lingering, with elegant red fruit and a herbaceous, slightly earthy tail.
HAUTE CABRIERE UNWOODED PINOT NOIR
R120,00WHY IS IT SPECIAL?
This Unwooded Pinot Noir is special because it shows a more vibrant, fruit-forward side of Pinot Noir, stripped of oak influence but full of elegance. It’s made to be enjoyed slightly chilled (around 14°C) to highlight its brightness and drinkability.REVIEWS/AWARDS
- Vinum Wine Magazine: 15.5/20
- Wine Enthusiast: 85/100
- Tim Atkin: 87/100
TASTING NOTES:
Nose: A bright and inviting bouquet of red berries—such as strawberries and cherries—with subtle hints of blueberry, mocha, and even a whisper of cigar box when tasted via certain importers.
Palate: Light-bodied yet flavourful, offering juicy red fruit (cranberry, cherry), a gentle freshness, and soft, delicate tannins.
Finish: Clean, elegant, and lingering—with a touch of red fruit and a refreshing lifted acidity.
LOURENSFORD THE DOME PINOT NOIR
R179,00WHY IS IT SPECIAL?
Lourensford The Dome Pinot Noir stands out as a refined, accessible South African Pinot Noir that offers excellent value without sacrificing character. Drawing on the estate’s diverse terroir and cool‑slope vineyards, this Pinot delivers fresh red‑fruit purity, subtle spice and mineral finesse — a style that captures Stellenbosch’s potential for elegant, lighter‑bodied reds. Its consistency across vintages and recognition in South African wine competitions make it a dependable bottle for both everyday enjoyment and moderate ageing.REVIEWS/AWARDS
- Tim Atkin: 90/100
- Decanter World Wine Awards: 87/100
TASTING NOTES:
Nose: Bright red cherries and ripe red berries with a subtle undertone of well‑used leather and soft spice.
Palate: Silky and medium-bodied, with juicy red fruit — cherry and raspberry — balanced by lively, refreshing acidity. There's a gentle hint of spice and subtle earthiness that adds depth without overpowering the fruit core.
Finish: Clean and elegant, with lingering red‑berry notes, a touch of minerality, and a soft, smooth texture — making it both immediate and food‑friendly while retaining potential for short-term cellaring.
This wine is best served slightly chilled at temperatures between 14-16°
MEERLUST PINOT NOIR
R370,00WHY IS IT SPECIAL?
Meerlust Pinot Noir stands apart as one of South Africa’s benchmark interpretations of the variety, offering a Burgundian sensibility with unmistakable coastal Stellenbosch character. Its cool maritime influence from False Bay provides vibrant acidity and savoury elegance, while careful oak use brings structure and layering rather than heavy vanilla sweetness. The result is an expressive, age-worthy Pinot with refined tannins, forest-floor complexity, wild berry purity, and a collector-worthy evolution over 5–7 years. Meerlust’s heritage (established 1756) and meticulous winemaking underpin its reputation as a flagship South African Pinot Noir respected by critics, sommeliers and collectors.REVIEWS/AWARDS
- Tom Cannavan: 92/100
- Wine Enthusiast: 90/100
TASTING NOTES:
Nose: Aromas of wild strawberry, ripe cherry, raspberry compote and pomegranate, supported by earthy notes of truffle, dried leaves, cedar spice and subtle floral perfume.
Palate: Elegant and medium-bodied with finely textured tannins. Red-berry purity intertwines with savoury elements of forest floor, rose petals, subtle oak spice and hints of mushroom and cocoa. The cool-climate acidity carries freshness and poise.
Finish: Long, silky and complex, with lingering red fruit, mineral edge, warm spice and subtle umami savouriness that promises further development in bottle.
OAK VALLEY SOS PINOT NOIR
R159,00WHY IS IT SPECIAL?
Oak Valley SOS Pinot Noir stands out because it captures the essence of cool-climate South African Pinot Noir — delicate, terroir-driven, elegant rather than heavy — a style that remains relatively rare in the region. The estate’s commitment to low-yield vineyards, altitude-grown grapes, and gentle winemaking ensures consistent quality and character. Its balance of bright red fruit, fresh acidity, and subtle earthiness makes it versatile for early enjoyment but with enough structure to cellar 3–5 years, allowing more complexity to develop.REVIEWS/AWARDS
- Platters 2023: 90/100
TASTING NOTES:
Nose: A fragrant bouquet of red cherries and rose petals, sometimes with a touch of soft cinnamon or gentle forest-floor earthiness.
Palate: Juicy red berries — cranberry, tart cherry, sometimes pomegranate — balanced by fresh acidity and light, fine tannins. As it opens, subtle savoury notes and a gentle mineral or earthy undertone emerge, reflecting the cool-climate origin.
Finish: Clean, refreshing and lingering, with red-fruit echoes and a soft spice or delicate oak trace that adds depth without heaviness.
PASCAL JOLIVET SANCERRE ROUGE
R650,00WHY IS IT SPECIAL?
Sancerre Rouge from Pascal Jolivet is a rare example of Loire red done with respect and sensitivity. Its strength lies in balance, subtlety and terroir-driven finesse — rather than power or heaviness. The cool‑climate vineyards, limestone‑clay soils and minimalist winemaking give a Pinot Noir that is elegant, refined and expressive, with freshness, minerality and red‑fruit clarity. For collectors or lovers of European‑style Pinot, it’s a standout for its sense of place and consistency across vintages.REVIEWS/AWARDS
- Wine Spectator: 90/100
- A Larsson: 90/100
TASTING NOTES:
Nose: A bouquet of bright red fruits — cherry, raspberry, redcurrant — layered with subtle floral notes (violet, rose petals), gentle spice and light earthiness. Delicate but expressive, with a freshness that reflects Sancerre’s chalky‑clay soils and cool climate.
Palate: Medium-bodied yet refined, with juicy red‑berry flavours — sour cherry, cranberry, wild raspberry — framed by fine tannins, lively acidity and a slight mineral lift. A hint of spice and subtle herbal/earthy undertones add complexity without masking the fruit.
Finish: Elegant and lingering, with fresh red‑fruit echoes, a touch of minerality and understated spice — clean, balanced and refined, leaving a lasting impression of freshness and finesse.
*Please note: This is an imported product and might take longer than 5 – 7 business days for delivery to be done*
PASCAL JOLIVET SANCERRE ROUGE SAUVAGE
R1200,00WHY IS IT SPECIAL?
Sancerre Rouge “Sauvage” is rare — while Sancerre is better known for its Sauvignon Blanc, this wine shows that the appellation can also produce refined, expressive Pinot Noir when handled with respect to terroir and tradition. The old vines, limestone‑clay soils, and the minimal‑intervention winemaking deliver a wine that is elegant yet wild, with red‑fruit freshness, mineral tension, savoury depth and old‑vine intensity. For collectors and lovers of Loire wines, it’s a superb example of place-over‑processing — offering Burgundy-like nuance but with distinctive Loire soul.REVIEWS/AWARDS
- Wine Spectator: 90/100
- A Larsson: 90/100
TASTING NOTES:
Nose: Bright aromas of wild red berries — cherry, raspberry, redcurrant — layered with undergrowth earthiness, subtle forest‑floor spice, light peppery warmth and a gentle herbal note. There’s also a floral lift and a hint of rustic terroir character.
Palate: Medium‑bodied with lively acidity and fine, poised tannins. The core delivers vibrant red fruit — sour cherry, cranberry, wild strawberry — balanced by a savoury undertone: dried herbs, soft spice, a subtle mineral streak from the limestone soils, and a whisper of subtle oak spice from the demi‑muid ageing. Texture is supple, with a measured but real depth.
Finish: Clean and lingering: red‑fruit echoes linger with a subtle earthy minerality and soft spice. The finish is refined yet grounded — leaving a lasting impression of freshness, terroir and red-fruit vibrancy.
*Please note: This is an imported product and might take longer than 5 – 7 business days for delivery to be done*
PAUL CLUVER ESTATE PINOT NOIR
R340,00WHY IS IT SPECIAL?
What makes Paul Clüver Estate Pinot Noir so compelling is its benchmark expression of Elgin terroir. The region’s cool climate, high-altitude vineyards, and shale soils give this Pinot graceful lift, purity of fruit, and refined structure. Winemaker Andries Burger’s Burgundian-inspired approach—natural fermentation, hand punch-downs, and thoughtful oak use—further elevates this wine into a collector’s favourite.REVIEWS/AWARDS
- International Wine Challenge: Gold (2021), Silver (2019, 2020 & 2022)
- International Wine & Spirit Competition: Bronze (2021)
- Wine Enthusiast: 90/100
TASTING NOTES:
Nose: Delicate aromas of red and dark berries (think cherry, redcurrant), subtle earthiness, and soft floral violet undertones.
Palate: Medium-bodied with bright red fruit—cranberry, tart cherry—plus savoury hints and fine tannins; a touch of oak supports without overwhelming.
Finish: Clean and lingering, with refreshing acidity and a graceful, silky tail.
PAUL CLUVER VILLAGE PINOT NOIR
R150,00WHY IS IT SPECIAL?
Paul Cluver Village Pinot Noir stands out as one of South Africa’s top-value cool-climate Pinots, delivering flavours reminiscent of Burgundy while maintaining the estate’s signature Elgin identity. Known for precision and restraint, the wine showcases bright red fruit, savoury spice, subtle earthiness and pristine acidity that appeals to both collectors and everyday wine enthusiasts. The Cluver estate is also a pioneer of sustainable farming and conservation winemaking, elevating its reputation for crafting elegant, world-class Pinot Noir that consistently performs above its price point.REVIEWS/AWARDS
- International Wine Challenge: Bronze (2022)
- Decanter World Wine Awards: 88/100
TASTING NOTES:
Nose: Fresh aromas of strawberry, cherry, cranberry and red plum, lifted by subtle notes of cinnamon, dried herbs and autumn leaves.
Palate: Silky and medium-bodied, showcasing pure red berries intertwined with gentle spice, soft tannins and a lively mineral-driven acidity that adds finesse and balance.
Finish: Smooth and savoury with lingering cherry, fine spice and a touch of earthy complexity that reflects true cool-climate character.
THE VALLEY PINOT NOIR
R240,00WHY IS IT SPECIAL?
The Valley Pinot Noir is a standout among South Africa’s cool‑climate Pinots for offering what many seek: a Burgundy‑style sensibility at an accessible price point. The combination of Elgin’s cool maritime climate, thoughtful clone selection, minimal oak influence, and careful cellar work gives a Pinot that balances bright red fruit vibrancy, fine tannins, mineral freshness, and elegant structure. For wine lovers building a cellar of versatile, ageable wines — or for those looking for a refined everyday Pinot — The Valley delivers consistent quality and impressive drinkability.TASTING NOTES:
Nose: Bright red and blue fruit — think strawberries, cherries, raspberries, with touches of cranberry and a hint of dark berry depth. Alongside fruit there’s a subtle herbal‑earthy note and soft undergrowth/mushroom‑forest floor character that speaks to its cool-climate terroir.
Palate: Medium-bodied with juicy red-berry core (cherry, raspberry, cranberry), lifted by fresh acidity and a light mineral streak that gives tension and drive. Tannins are smooth and fine-grained, lending a silky texture rather than weight, while a gentle herbal/earthy note keeps it grounded and complex.
Finish: Clean, elegant and persistent. Red fruit lingers, underpinned by soft spice and a gentle mineral‑chalk dryness that refreshes the palate — avoiding heaviness and encouraging another sip.
VAN LOVEREN BLUE VELVET PINOT NOIR
R115,00WHY IS IT SPECIAL?
Blue Velvet stands out because it brings Pinot Noir’s classic red-berry elegance and silky texture to a wine that remains affordable, approachable, and versatile. Van Loveren’s legacy and consistent quality from Robertson — a region better known for warm-climate reds — make this wine a dependable choice for both casual drinking and more thoughtful servings. It offers a smooth, fruit-forward profile that many find easy to enjoy now, while enough structure exists for modest cellaring. For collectors building a broad, drink-ready cellar, Blue Velvet hits the sweet spot between value and quality.REVIEWS/AWARDS
- Wine style People's Wine Choice: Silver Medal
TASTING NOTES:
Nose: Aromas of red berries — think raspberry, cranberry and cherry — with floral and subtle earthy undertones. Several retailers note upfront fruit flavours of raspberries and cranberries, and gentle spicy or earthy tones.
Palate: On the palate, Blue Velvet offers juicy red-fruit flavours — dark cherry, strawberry, raspberry — coupled with soft, gentle tannins and a smooth, medium-bodied texture. The wine delivers a refreshing balance of fruit and light structure, with a touch of spice or earthiness that adds subtle complexity.
Finish: The finish is clean and elegant, lingering with red fruit and a gentle, soft-spiced character rather than overwhelming oak or heavy tannins.