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Nestled in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, near the ocean, Hamilton Russell Vineyards stands as one of the southernmost wine estates in Africa. Tim Hamilton Russell, after meticulously searching for the most southerly location capable of producing the finest cool-climate South African wines from various noble varieties, acquired an undeveloped 180-hectare property in 1975. His son, Anthony Hamilton Russell, who took over management in 1991, narrowed the focus to ‘Pinot Noir’ and ‘Chardonnay’ and officially registered Hamilton Russell Vineyards. Today, Anthony, along with his wife Olive, winemaker Emul Ross, and viticulturist Johan Montgomery, are fully dedicated to expressing the unique terroir of the Hamilton Russell Vineyards Hemel-en-Aarde Valley in their wines. Due to low yields and high global demand, these wines are rare but undoubtedly represent some of the finest examples of South African ‘Chardonnay’ and ‘Pinot Noir’.
Read moreWine Style
Hamilton Russell Vineyards wines are characterized by their elegance, subtlety, and excellent reflection of the cool climate and unique terroir of the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley.
White Wine (predominantly ‘Chardonnay’) is mineral, complex, with elegant notes of citrus fruit, white flowers, and nuts. It boasts a superb balance of acidity and texture, culminating in a long, refined finish.
Red Wine (predominantly ‘Pinot Noir’) is subtle and aromatic, with bright red berry (cherry, raspberry) and earthy notes. It features fine tannins, an elegant structure, and a long-lasting, complex finish.
Prestigious Vineyards
At Hamilton Russell Vineyards, the primary focus is on ‘Chardonnay’ and ‘Pinot Noir’, which have adapted exceptionally well to the cool climate and unique soils of the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. The vineyards are meticulously managed to ensure low yields and the highest quality of grapes. Anthony Hamilton Russell and his team firmly believe that this is the only way to fully express the terroir’s uniqueness in every bottle of wine.
Aging and Consumption Period
Hamilton Russell Vineyards wines are crafted to age and develop over time. The ‘Chardonnay’ is often aged in French oak barrels, while the ‘Pinot Noir’ also spends time in oak, gaining further complexity and elegance. While these wines can be enjoyed in their youth, their true potential unfolds after several years of bottle aging.