The Affair Pinot Noir is a refined style of Pinot Noir showcasing the love affair between the soft, feminine side of Pinot, being the floral notes, hints of spice and silkiness; and the masculine linear strength of the tannins, hints of oak and brooding dark forest floor aromas.
The Pinot Noir planted on our farm in the new ward of Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge, 10km in proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. The climate being “temperate” in style, where the southerly maritime winds blow through the appellations during the summer. These winds in turn bring regular sea mists and overcast conditions to the areas and with it more even temperatures. The average temperature is 19° C and rainfall, approximately, 750mm per year.
Grapes from seven different vineyards were harvested by hand in the cool early morning temperatures and kept overnight in cold storage. After overnight cold storage they were sorted, destemmed and gently crushed into red ferment tanks. Cold maceration occurred for an average of 3 days after which the cooling was turned off and the juice was allowed to undergo spontaneous fermentation. The wine was then fermented under controlled temperatures until dry. The skins were then lightly pressed and the wine racked into a selection of French Oak barrels (20% new barrels) for 10 months ageing and maturation. Final blending occurred one month prior to bottling and after bottling the wine was kept for a minimum of six months prior to release.
This is a refined style of Pinot noir, showcasing all of the allure and subtle nuances that gives this grape such a mystical following. It is a wine of grace and feminine character, soft and floral on the nose with red cherry and underlying spice. It has a hint of forest floor that reminds of its Burgundian heritage.
The palate is both silky and textured, displaying a lovely roundness as well as soft, integrated tannins and length.
Categories: La Vierge Winery, Pinot Noir, Region
