Paul Cluver Seven Flags Pinot Noir 2008

Andries believes that the essence of a great Pinot noir is the purity of fruit and the structure of the wine. The 2008 vintage has this essence, substantiated by its natural acidity. The colour has a luminosity, reminiscent of ripe cherries. The nose holds a combination of red berry, spice, mushrooms and dark chocolate. The palate is a continuation of all found on the nose. Structured and poised, with a tantalizing mineral core.

The natural acidity makes it a perfect partner with a diversity of dishes. Game fish, game birds and venison work very well, as does grilled beef and strong, hard cheese.

variety : Pinot Noir [ 100% Pinot Noir ]
winemaker : Andries Burger
wine of origin : 
analysis : alc : 13.64 % vol  rs : 3.2 g/l  pH : 3.43  ta : 5.3 g/l  
type : Red   wooded
pack : Bottle  size : 0  closure : Cork  

AWARDS
Recent accolades and recognition
John Platter 2011 - 4.5 stars (nominated for 5 stars)
Classic Wine Trophy 2011: Red Wine Category - Gold medal
Wine Magazine, South Africa - rated best South African Pinot noir. June 2011.
Old Mutaul Trophy wine show - Silver medal
in the vineyard : This wine combines site and barrel selection. It is the ultimate expression of the estate''s terroir - the culmination of dedication to the practice of viticulture and wine making.

Currently there are 18.5 hectares planted to Pinot noir on the estate, which equates to 22.8% of the total plantings. Clones include 667, 113, 115, 116 and BK5. The first vines were planted in 1989 and the youngest blocks in 2004. Vines range in age from 5 to 20 years. The soil is predominantly decomposed Bokkeveld Shale with underlying clay layers of varying depths. Vine orientation is North/South on North east and South facing slopes and North west/South east on the South facing slopes. Height above sea level ranges from 280 to 400 meters. Some vineyard blocks are superlative to others and it is these blocks that are earmarked for the Seven Flags Pinot noir each year. Each block is harvested and fermented separately.

about the harvest: Fortunately all the Pinot noir was already harvested before the late summer rain came. Harvesting started 8 February and continued until 4 March. The yield varied from 4 to 6 tons per hectare. The grapes came in at 22° - 22.8° Brix.

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