Kershaw GPS Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge Pinot Noir, 2018

Richard’s GPS series explores unusual vineyard sites outside of his home base in Elgin. In this case, two small parcels of Pinot Noir in a protected lee on Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge planted on Bokkeveld shale soils. The wine is a bright, transparent ruby colour with subtle floral and raspberry aromas. It is supple initially developing a juicy acidity which complements a layered silky texture. More red fruits combine with herbal notes with some grip on the finish and refreshing sour cherry flavours. Grapes were picked by hand on March 5, 2018, at between 23.3°Bx and 23.6°Bx. Two Burgundian clones, PN777 and PN115, were used, with each clone and plot vinified separately. The wine spent 10-11 months in barrel with regular tasting in order for Richard and Dudley to increase their understanding of the impact of clonal, soil and barrel selection. The oak is neatly integrated with just a small amount of new oak used.