Crystallum, `Bona Fide` Pinot Noir

Country: South Africa  Region: Cape South Coast  Vintage: 2021

Category: Red Wine  Colour:  Red

Producer: Crystallum

Crystallum Wines is located in Walker Bay , South Africa . It is a small, artisanal, limited-production winery established in 2007 by brothers Andrew and Peter-Allan Finlayson . They come from a family of pioneer winegrowers in the production of Pinot Noir in the ward of Hemel-en-Aarde , with the creation of Bouchard Finlayson in particular. Crystallum's first vintage in 2007 was made exclusively from Sauvignon Blanc, but the following year Chardonnay and Pinot Noir were added to the wine portfolio. Crystallum now focuses on Burgundian varieties . Crystallum produces approximately 700 cases per year; about 60% red wine and 40% white.

Bona Fide is the Latin term for "In good faith" which refers to the relationship between the Finlayson brothers and the owners of the vineyards, the Lötter family, which dates back 30 years. Fermentation is carried out in whole bunches (70%) and whole berries (30%). The maceration lasts 5 weeks then the wine is aged 11 months in French oak barrels , 20% of which are new.

Tasting Notes:

Powerful and complex expression of this site, with intense aromas of cranberry, sour cherry, tomato leaf, and nutmeg on the nose. The palate is equally decadent, with notes of cocoa, black cherry, wood smoke and mint. Deftly integrated tannins, refreshing acidity and a dense core of fruit indicate it's ability to age beyond 2035.

Food Suggestion: Serve with fine red meat such as Ostrich steak and simple side dishes that don't overshadow the quality of the meat and wine.

Closure: Natural Cork  ABV:14%  Acidity [g/l]: 5.1