Say thank you to the famous Hamilton Russell family. Two generations, one passion: creating exquisite wines in the picturesque Hemel en Aarde Valley. They are the proud owners of perhaps the southernmost vineyards in South Africa. Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are their usual suspects, but they have a wildcard—this Ashbourne Pinotage. The Pinotage grape? Oh, that's pure South African magic. Created almost a century ago at Stellenbosch University and now the darling of wine lovers worldwide.
The Hemel en Aarde Valley isn't just any valley; it's the place where Pinotage grapes truly flourish. After a loving hand-harvest, this juice receives VIP treatment in oak barrels. Imagine: 10 months in 400-liter barrels, followed by a pampering seven months in 2000-liter barrels. The result? A taste paradise. Pouring it will transport you to a forest of dark fruit. The oak aging adds layers of vanilla, coffee, and caramel. And just when you think you've had it all, a mischievous hint of pepper appears. Hamilton Russell's Ashbourne Pinotage? An absolute masterpiece!
