(92+ points) After the majority of the estate-grown Pinot Noir grapes were rejected in 2019 due to wildfires, the 2020 Pinot Noir marks the return of the Hemel-En-Aarde Valley bottling. Initially opening to aromas similar to that of somewhere between the Willamette Valley and Burgundy, the nose is earthy with a slightly rustic appeal and fresh, red-fruited essence. Medium-bodied and beautifully layered, the mouthfeel is bright and food-friendly with succulent acidity and youthful tannins. The wine concludes with elements of raspberry skin, Bing cherry and red spiced tea. - Anthony Mueller

This shows a lovely fruitiness from the start, with enticing aromas of snappy red cherry and raspberry laced with herbal elements of forest leaves and rooibos tea. The medium-weight palate boasts a satiny texture, with a bright seam of acidity that enlivens the red-fruit flavors and refined yet structuring tannins that frame the sip through the medium-length close. It's enticing now, but will hold well through 2028. Lauren Buzzeo

A graceful Pinot framed by light, crisp tannins, and a delicate, herbal overtone accenting flavors of ripe red currant and raspberry fruit, Mandarin orange peel and anise. Bright and lingering on the minerally finish. Drink now through 2026. – AN