Name: Cirrus Pinot Noir 2023
Brand: Cirrus
Price: 30.2 EUR
Availability: InStock

Cirrus Pinot Noir 2023

Manufacturer: Cirrus

An elegant and expressive cool-climate red from the unique high-altitude vineyards of the Ceres Plateau. At 1026m above sea level, the intense solar rays and cold nights create a wine with remarkable color concentration and preserved acidity. The nose is layered and inviting, offering aromas of pomegranate, strawberry compote, and undergrowth, accented by sweet spice notes of clove and a delicate hint of violets. On the palate, vibrant acidity perfectly balances silky tannins, enhancing intense flavors of black cherry, ripe strawberry, and pink peppercorn. A refined mineral note of wet stone adds sophisticated depth, leading to a long, lingering finish of fresh strawberries. Matured for 14 months in seasoned 500L French oak barrels, this Pinot Noir possesses excellent structure and age-ability.

2023 / 0.75 l / 13,72% / Ceres – South Africa

About the Winery

Cirrus, named after the wispy atmospheric clouds, focuses on crafting wines from fruit grown in high-altitude vineyards within the Witzenberg mountains on the Ceres Plateau. This unique project utilizes the rugged yet fascinating environment of Rietfontein farm to produce Pinot Noir that is distinctly South African while maintaining classic elegance.

Under the guidance of head winemaker Danielle le Roux, the cellar team employs a gentle handling approach to preserve the fruit's integrity and the unique characteristics provided by its origin. The result is a range of wines that combine pure varietal expression with the complexity gained from careful maturation in seasoned French oak barrels.

Terroir

The Cirrus terroir is defined by its extreme elevation of 1026 meters above sea level, where moderate summers, snowy winters, and intense solar rays create a truly unique microclimate. This altitude leads to a significant diurnal temperature shift; cooler nights allow the grapes to conserve acidity and lengthen the growing season, resulting in more elegant, age-worthy wines.

The vineyards are planted in poor, stony soils composed mainly of Glenrosa, Oakleaf, and Mispah types, with a reasonable clay content that aids water retention during dry vintages. Furthermore, the intensity of solar rays at higher elevations forces the fruit to develop thicker skins, leading to greater color concentration and stronger tannins.

Recommended wine pairings

Duck breast.png syry 2.png Mushroom risotto.png

Cirrus Pinot Noir 2023