Paul Cluver Estate Pinot Noir Vertical 1997 - 2006

About Paul Cluver Pinot Noir

I have tasted vertical, but for unexplained reason never rated them, but the following is excerpt from my tasting note book, will start rating with the 2008 vintage.

Paul Cluver Estate Elgin Pinot Noir shows very good colour retention across all vintage, along with one of the best pinot structure as well as longevity, found in the Cape.

Elegance and subtle extraction is a hallmark, ripe tannin, always needing time to integrate, there never a sign o thinness, dilution or greenness and the pinot is never acidified, which is a rare feat in Cape perspective, this is Pinot Noir made with respect and to be enjoyed with fine foods and good sophisticated company.

The following food suggestions will work very well with the Paul Cluver Estate Pinot Noir :

Canard a L’Orange
Coq au vin
Pan fried or grilled yellowtail or tuna
Charcuteries, such as saucisson and aired cured ham
Mild venison such as springbok
Salt and pepper slow roasted duck

1997 – Slightly gamey, typical pinot complexity
1998 – Complex notes of truffles, raspberries, very elegant mouth feels
2000 – Minty and eucalyptus, still tight, but will show all the hallmark of above
2001- Burgundian profile, grainy tannins, very good potential
2002 – Lovely red fruit with dark mushroom and forest floor character
2003 – Showy with toasty element predominate delicate fruit, more New World in style, very good purity.
2004 – Restraint, candied cherry note, good concentration
2006 – Tight structure, only 20% new wood, will be sumptuous by 2012, slow developer.