The 2022 Hamilton Russell Pinot Noir is a notable red wine from the Hemel-en-Aarde appellation in the Walker Bay sub-region of South Africa's Western Cape. This wine, produced by the Hamilton Russell winery, is crafted from the Pinot Noir varietal and is presented with a cork closure. The alcohol content is 13.5%.
Renowned for its elegance and complexity, the 2022 vintage has garnered positive reviews from multiple professional wine critics. James Suckling awarded it a score of 92, highlighting its sleek nature with "notes of cloves, cranberries, thyme, and raw mushrooms." Suckling also noted the wine's "medium-bodied, savory and nicely balanced" profile, with "fine-grained tannins," recommending it as suitable for immediate consumption or aging ("jamessuckling.com," 11/5/2022).
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate gave the wine an impressive 93+ points, emphasizing its vibrant aromas of "succulent dark red cherries and fresh potpourri essence." The review described the medium-bodied palate as offering "flavors of black raspberry with a firm-gripping tannic edge," and praised its "seductive florals with spicy flavors" that culminate in a "food-friendly finish." The wine underwent 10 months of barrel aging in 36% new French oak, with just under 20,000 bottles produced ("Robert Parker's Wine Advocate," 12/30/2023).
Wine & Spirits magazine rated the wine 91 points, remarking on its "gorgeous, spicy" character and "plenty of pink-peppercorn lift and turned-earth savor." The review suggested that the wine's "nervy" nature and "bitter tannins" would pair well with barbecue or grilled meat in a sweet soy glaze ("Wine & Spirits," 3/1/2024).
Wine Enthusiast also gave the wine a score of 92, with Jesica Vargas describing it as "elegant and spicy" with a nose that "opens with white pepper and nutmeg." Vargas noted the "energized palate and tight tannins" that frame flavors of "strawberries, cherries, and subtle dried herbs," with "hints of cardamom" in the aftertaste ("Wine Enthusiast," 4/1/2024).
Overall, the 2022 Hamilton Russell Pinot Noir stands out for its balance, intricate flavor profile, and aging potential, making it a commendable choice for both immediate enjoyment and cellaring.