BOUCHARD FINLAYSON 'Tete de Cuvee' Pinot Noir - Walker Bay 2020 Bottle - VGN

Description

IN BRIEF
Bouchard Finlayson 'Tête de Cuvée' Pinot Noir 2020 is a testament to the winemaker's commitment to quality, sourced exclusively from the finest barrels of the vintage in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. This medium-deep garnet wine showcases captivating aromas of black cherry, ripe strawberries, and floral hints of rose, enhanced by subtle cinnamon nuances. On the palate, it offers a beautifully integrated experience, balancing rich fruit with savoury oak spice, showcasing the finesse that Pinot Noir is known for. The long, complex finish leaves lasting impressions of fruit and oak, making it best enjoyed from 2024 to 2034. This exceptional wine pairs beautifully with roasted meats and earthy mushroom dishes, earning a noteworthy 89 points from The Wine Advocate.

ABOUT THIS WINE
Bouchard Finlayson 'Tête de Cuvée' Pinot Noir 2020 is an exquisite reflection of the winemaker's commitment to quality, showcasing a selection of the finest barrels from the vintage. This wine highlights the unique terroir of the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, where the combination of exceptional soil and climate allows for the perfect expression of this delicate yet rich grape.

**Nose:**
The wine presents a medium-deep garnet colour, inviting you to explore its aromatic complexity. The nose is abundant and captivating, with prominent notes of black cherry and ripe strawberries, complemented by elegant floral hints of rose. Subtle nuances of delicate cinnamon and essential oil enrich the aromatic profile, creating an inviting bouquet that promises depth and sophistication.

**Palate:**
On the palate, the 'Tête de Cuvée' delivers a beautifully integrated experience. The richness of the fruit is balanced by a savoury character, with oak spice providing structure and complexity. The texture is classically dense yet refined, showcasing the finesse that Pinot Noir is known for. Flavours of dark fruit persist alongside hints of spice, leading to a wine that is both regal and elegant.

**Finish:**
The finish is long and complex, leaving a lasting impression of rich fruit and integrated oak. The harmonious balance of flavours unfolds gracefully, inviting multiple sips to fully appreciate its depth.

Bouchard Finlayson 'Tête de Cuvée' Pinot Noir 2020 is best enjoyed from 2024 through 2034, allowing time for the wine to develop further complexity and elegance. This exceptional Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, particularly roasted meats, duck, and earthy mushroom dishes. This wine is a splendid showcase of the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley's terroir, offering a remarkable tasting experience that highlights the artistry of Bouchard Finlayson and the elusive beauty of Pinot Noir.

THE WINE ADVOCATE 89 points
Reviewed by: Anthony Mueller
Drink Date: 2023 - 2029
The 2020 Tête de Cuvée Pinot Noir, a select offering only made in exceptional vintages, originates from the top 10% of the Galpin Peak barrels, typically involving only six to 12 barrels. This edition consists of just six barrels, emphasizing its exclusivity. The medium to full-bodied wine features an oaky essence that rounds out the profile alongside hints of greenness. It retains a soft texture from the oak while showcasing a persistent greenness that drives the finish, reflecting a nuanced balance between wood influence and varietal character.

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ABOUT BOUCHARD FINLAYSON
Bouchard Finlayson is a renowned winery located in the picturesque Hemel-en-Aarde Valley near Hermanus, South Africa. Established in 1989 by accomplished winemaker Peter Finlayson, the estate has gained international acclaim for producing exceptional, handcrafted wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region. With a commitment to quality and a dedication to sustainable practices, Bouchard Finlayson has positioned itself as a leading producer of fine wines in South Africa.

The winery is particularly known for its focus on Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, which thrive in the cool climate of Hemel-en-Aarde. The region's maritime influence, combined with its diverse soils, allows for the production of elegant and complex wines. Bouchard Finlayson employs traditional winemaking techniques, including hand harvesting and minimal intervention in the cellar, allowing the true character of the grapes and the influence of the terroir to shine through.

The flagship wine, Galpin Peak Pinot Noir, is celebrated for its depth, richness, and vibrant fruit flavours, often exhibiting nuances of cherry, berry, and earthy undertones. The estate also produces a range of other acclaimed wines, such as the Walker Bay Chardonnay and the Hannibal, a blended red wine that combines varietals such as Sangiovese, Nebbiolo, and Pinot Noir, offering a unique expression of the region.

Bouchard Finlayson has received numerous awards and accolades for its wines, solidifying its reputation on both a national and international scale. The winery invites visitors for tastings and tours, providing an opportunity to explore the stunning surroundings and learn about the winemaking process firsthand.

With its commitment to excellence and sustainability, Bouchard Finlayson continues to produce wines that captivate wine enthusiasts and reflect the beauty of the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. Each bottle represents a testament to the craftsmanship and passion behind South Africa's burgeoning wine industry.