A wine lovers read

But sometimes one forgets these early pioneers who, like Tim, gave up his Johannesburg advertising career to pursue his passion – wine.

The Feminine grape

Anthony, his son, is no less passionate, and has expanded the business to include olives, olive oil and two other wine ventures Ashbourne and Southern Right. In this way, he can specialize in Chardonnay and Pinot Noir on the Hamilton Russell farm. Both outstanding in their own right, but the Pinot Noir, such a finicky, temperamental grape, so typical of females they say, they refer to it as the “feminine grape”, really excels on this farm.

Pinot Noir

Many consumers miss out on a vinous treat by not considering Pinot Noir in their cellar collection. The current vintage, 2005, is delightful now, particularly with food, which is confirmed by the fact that two of the world’s top restaurants, Spain’s El Bulli and UK’s The Fat Duck, have both listed it on their wine lists. I am sure their clients are enjoying it with beautifully presented duck.

Spain just might be my next stop.