Storm Vrede Pinot Noir 2022

The best wines have elements of contradiction, a balancing act and tension of elements. All of Storm’s pinot noirs are distinct yet they share in their sense of the obviousness and elusiveness. The 2022 Vrede pinot noir is made from two clones and aged in 35% new wood. Juicy and mouth filling, a sense of controlled lusciousness. Fantastically complex with smoked almonds, compote summer red fruits, smoke, fresh compost, Iberico jamon, violets, lavender, tar and kirsch. For all its purity, savouriness is at hand to remind you of how serious this is. Such a long palate, the tannins coaxing, rich and mineral. Mint, basil, sweet balsamic and blackcurrants envelop the close, just as the minerality sweeps. To have such a volume of fruit tensioned by such as mass of minerality is astonishing. Norris at Waters Wine

Now including 20% of the 777 clone, alongside its habitual 115 base, Vrede comes from red clay soils with a high iron component. Seductively perfumed, this stunning red has fine tannins, fleshy, opulent flavours of strawberry and redcurrant, finely judged 35% new wood and undertones of rose petal and forest floor. One of the greatest ever Cape Pinot Noirs. 97 Points – Tim Atkin MW

Intensely fragrant, showing wild-cherry, clove, rhubarb, licorice and dried-flower aromas. On the palate, it’s medium-bodied and focused with support from ripe tannins. Dark floral undertones continue, offering salty hints on a firm finish. Try after 2025. 96 Points – James Suckling

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