For decades now, Hamilton Russell has been producing the best expressions of Burgundy Varieties from the ultra-cool climate region of Hemel-en-Aarde in South Africa. They were alone in this region when they first began putting in vineyards, but as they have grown in acclaim over the decades, others took note and now there are nearly 16 winemakers in this tiny, cool region of South Africa. The 2022 Pinot Noir hits Hamilton-Russell’s French-driven style right off the bat. With aromas of tobacco, cigar box, floral notes and red cherry on the nose, the palate leads to a more muscular expression than the 21. Brambly fruit with pomegranate and strawberry on the plate offset with a kick of spice. This is sleek and streamlined with plenty of texture and tannin but without a touch of bitterness. A global-benchmark Pinot Noir that is incredibly competitive to French alternatives at its price.