Pinot Noir
A noble variety native to Burgundy. It produces delicate, complex, and elegant wines, but is also known for being very difficult to cultivate. Its charm lies in its transparent color and aromas of red fruits and spices.
A basin at around 300 metres elevation southeast of Cape Town, and one of South Africa's coolest wine regions. Long known primarily as apple country, serious viticulture only began in the 1980s, yet Elgin is now internationally regarded as the source of the country's most elegant Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Its coastal basin draws in cool air, giving a slow ripening that is exceptional for South Africa.
Climate / Soil
- Climate
- Cool maritime climate
- Soil
- Bokkeveld shale, Table Mountain sandstone, Gravelly loam
Appellations
- Elgin
- Cape South Coast
History
A valley that prospered on apple growing from the 19th century, its history as a wine region began only in the 1980s. Pioneers who recognised its coolness planted vines, and serious wines followed from the late 1990s. Through the 2000s a succession of cool-climate specialists arrived, and in a short span Elgin became one of South Africa’s leading fine-wine regions.
Sommelier Note
A region that overturns the assumption that South Africa means power. Elgin Pinot Noir is never overripe: acidity and earthy aromatics are finely composed, with a delicacy reminiscent of Burgundy. The Clonal Selection wines made by Master of Wine Richard Kershaw show that quality with particular clarity.
Key Varieties
Chardonnay
The world's most popular white wine grape. Native to Burgundy, it shows diverse expressions from the crisp acidity of Chablis to the rich style of California, depending on region and winemaking.
Sauvignon Blanc
A white wine grape known for its refreshing acidity and herbal aromas. It shows its finest expression in Loire Valley's Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé, and New Zealand's Marlborough. Perfect as an aperitif on hot days.
Riesling
A noble white wine grape native to Germany. Made in styles ranging from dry to extremely sweet, it has remarkable aging potential. Known for high acidity and delicate aromas, with aging it develops a distinctive 'petrol' aroma.