One of the great wineries of South Africa, Hamilton Russell is set in one of the most southerly wine estates in Africa and one of the closest to the sea. Set in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley appellation, just behind the old fishing village of Hermanus, the house focuses on producing limited amounts of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Anthony Hamilton Russell took over from the founder, Tim Hamilton Russell, in 1991, and bought the property from the family in 1994. Tim originally purchased the undeveloped 170 hectare property in 1975, searching for a great site to make Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
Vines are set on stony, clay-rich, shale-derived soil which create lovely earthy and terroir-driven wines. Their new releases were really outstanding. The wines are very reminiscent of Burgundy in terms of nuance.
I love the new 2024 Hamilton Russell Chardonnay (OB, 95) which shows world-class terroir in the glass with its stony and salty character. Learn more about these outstanding wines at http://www.hamiltonrussellvineyards.com Here are the new release wines by Hamilton Russell.
2024 Hamilton Russell Chardonnay- A stunning rendition of this wine, the world-class 2024 Hamilton Russell Chardonnay was sourced from this steep location set on stony, clay-rich soils. This is laden with minerality and salty nuance. Rich melon and tropical fruits connect well with Japanese pear tones on the palate. A joy to consume now, watch this evolve over the next decade. Drink 2026-2038- 95
2024 Hamilton Russell Pinot Noir- The gorgeous 2024 Hamilton Russell Pinot Noir comes from this rocky seaside location in Hemel-En-Aarde. This comes off very flinty and nuanced, with terrific reduction. Black truffle crudo, red currants, and shades of cran-pomegranate all combine with Nori notes on the palate. Complex and highly delicious, watch this evolve over the next ten plus years to come. Drink 2026-2040- 96