A label I believe is no longer operating. This is a Pinotage from West Auckland – a rare varietal to come across in this country – and from a decent vintage in 2009. The colour has a little browning from age in the bottle, with a burgundy hue. The nose seems like a cross between Bordeaux and Burgundy is you had to guess – There’s a peppery spice to add to the rich blackberry, cherry and plum fruit aromas. The body is light – again, pinot-esque, and with a smooth softness to the palate. Savoury notes feel more pronounced in the mid-palate, with bracken, tapenade, red liquorice and a tarry char (from the oak perhaps). Tannin is supple and the acidity is still quite bright. A distinctive orange peel and oil note emerges at the finish. Possibly past its best, but an interesting voice from the past. 86pts
St. Jerome Kara Creek Pinotage 2009
