Iona, Pinot Noir, South Africa 2019 BIN NO 1313

A powerful Pinot Noir with floral and spicy notes produced in the Elgin Highlands in South Africa, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. 

Ideally matched with beef bourguignon with mushroom or braised lamb shanks.

Blend: Pinot Noir 100%

Vegetarian, Vegan and Organic Wine.

ABV 13.5%

Producer Profile

At 420m above sea-level, set high above the picturesque Elgin Valley Andrew Gunn founded Iona. It is here overlooking the Atlantic ocean that he has secured some of the coolest vineyards in the Cape of South Africa.

In a country where cool climate vineyards are like gold dust, these vineyards are veritable nuggets. There is an extremely long growing season, allowing Andrew to create wines with complex flavours and a fresh, elegant style. The approach is hands off and the land is farmed according to organic and biodynamic practices with a particular focus on ensuring the health of the soils whilst pests are kept under control by the resident flock of geese that roam the vineyards.

Read more about the producer here.

Viticulture

Iona winery uses organic practices in the cultivation of their wines. Minimal intervention whilst the grapes are growing with hand harvesting to select only the best grapes for the wines.

Wine Making

The grapes were berry selected on a sorting table, destemmend and gently crushed. The must fermented in stainless steel tanks at 28°C, with regular punch downs during the fermentation. After malolactic fermentation, the wine matures for 12-14 months in 300 litre French oak barrels with 25% new.

Oak Treatment

Time: 12 Months
Type: French
% wine oaked: 100
% new oak: 20

Tasting Notes

Succulent black cherry aroma, bright but delicate and hints of forest floor, with underlying floral and spicy notes. On the palate, the wine is powerful, with silk-textured length.