2013 Hamilton Russell Pinot Noir

“The 2013 Pinot Noir was a perfect vintage with a long hang time: cool temperatures during the ripening season, even ripening with good tannin structure. The tannins are so silky,” Hannes enthused, pouring what might turn out to be one of the estate's best Pinot Noirs to date. “There is also a lot of perfume in the wine, much more voluptuous compared to 2012. But it was a small crop – around 25% less than the previous vintage.” Picked from February 10 (five or six days later than the 2012), it has that telltale eucalyptus note on the nose that is immediately reminiscent of the 2001. There is certainly more intensity here than the previous vintage. The palate is very well-balanced with good substance: beautiful, silky tannins and real poise on the Vosne-like finish. Dare I say, you might think that you were drinking say a Vosne-Romanée Beaux Monts, if it were not for the opulence on the nose. Superb.