From a northeast-facing slope in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, planted on low-vigour, Bokkeveld shale soil, the 2020 Vrede Pinot Noir is the most structured and powerful of the 3 Pinots. Opulent and sumptuous in 2020, it is just 'wow'.
From a vineyard in the Upper Hemel-en-Aarde Valley cluttered with round pebbles over decomposed granite, the 2020 Ignis Pinot Noir is aromatically the most beguiling. With notes of tea and spices followed by juicy fruit density, Tim Atkin MW calls it the Chambolle-Musigny of this range. It is just so delicious already!
From a cool, eastern slope in the Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge, the 2020 Ridge Pinot Noir is grown on low-vigour, stony, clay-rich Bokkeveld shale soils. The palate is deeper and more luxurious, seemingly getting better with every release.
The 2021 Vrede Chardonnay is inviting with stone fruit notes, a slight tannic grip on entry and a focused finish with marked acidity. Grown on a northeast-facing slope in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley with low-vigour, stony, clay-rich Bokkeveld shale soil, this is perfectly balanced straight out of the block.
With shy white peach and alluring oak spice, the 2021 Ridge Chardonnay needs time to settle. The finish is tight and focused, with a powerfully driven backbone of acidity. From a cool, eastern slope in the Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge, it offers power, elegance and length.
Over 30 rare and sought-after Storm lots will be going on auction this weekend. As part of Strauss & Co's Hemel-en-Aarde-themed live virtual sale (Sunday, 3 April at 10am), Storm Wines will be featured alongside prestigious Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs from Crystallum and Newton Johnson. Register and place your pre-sales bids now.