Overview
At 200–400m altitude, cooled by Atlantic and Indian Ocean air through the Hottentots Holland Mountains, Elgin is 8–10°C cooler than Stellenbosch. The Pinot Noir — from Paul Cluver, Shannon and Iona — has genuine Burgundian character: red cherry, forest floor, silky tannins. The Sauvignon Blanc rivals Marlborough. And the Riesling? South Africa's most underrated wine.
In The Glass
- Colour
- Medium ruby
- Nose
- Red cherry, Raspberry, Pomegranate, Fynbos and Violets.
- Palate
- The Cape's cool-climate gem — Burgundian Pinot, electric Sauvignon, world-class Riesling. Generally light-bodied, electric acidity, soft tannins, dry, with a long finish.
Tasting Profile
Body Light2/5
Tannins Soft2/5
Acidity Electric5/5
Sweetness Bone Dry1/5
Alcohol Medium3/5
Grapes
Pinot NoirSauvignon BlancRieslingChardonnaySyrah
Aromas And Notes
Red cherryRaspberryPomegranateLimeGooseberryFynbosVioletsForest floorHerbsTruffleCedarSpice
Terroir
Cool maritime-continental — high altitude plateau, Atlantic and Indian Ocean breezes, regular mist. 800mm annual rainfall.
Decomposed graniteClayDeep well-drained soils
Food Pairings
Grilled snoekOstrich filletWild mushroomsAged GoudaCape Malay chicken
Notable Producers
- Paul Cluver Estate, founded 1896 - Seven Flags Pinot Noir
- Shannon Vineyards, founded 2000 - Mount Bullet Merlot
- Iona Vineyard, founded 1997 - Iona Sauvignon Blanc