Layered and dense fruit of cherry, raspberry, blackberry, and Turkish delight alludes to the varied vineyard parcels. The fresh, dewy lift and full sweet violets on the nose conveys the clarity of Mrs. M vineyard in Granite soil. The broad, chewy texture engulfs the palate; framed by the thicker tannins of Windansea vineyard; leaching soft spices of cinnamon, clove and fennel in the finish.

This Pinot Noir is the embodiment of Newton Johnson's most definitive and consistent vineyard sites on the estate. Over the years every aspect of these vineyards has been detailed and fine-tuned in order to present their individual character and their relationship with the farm.

Led by Dave, a Cape Wine Master with a thesis on Pinot Noir, and his wife, Felicity (nee Newton), the Newton Johnson family moved to the Upper Hemel en Aarde Valley in 1995, built a cellar and started planting vines shortly thereafter. This enthusiasm for wine and Pinot Noir in particular, was passed on to and eagerly adopted by his sons Bevan and Gordon. They in turn have taken this family cellar and vineyards to new heights in exploring the nuances of this grape and their vineyards.

"The 2022 Family Vineyards Pinot Noir features a bouquet of spicy cherry, potpourri and subtle tree bark, presenting a fresh and succulent profile. Medium to full-bodied, it boasts a balanced structure with fine-grained tannins and a fresh beam of bright cherry, strawberry and cranberry notes, accented with fern and tea leaves, showcasing elegant spice. Subtly oaked and with a refined finish, this wine demonstrates focus and precision that exudes sophistication and depth. It matured for 11 months in French oak, 29% new. A total of 19,750 bottles were produced of this delightful Pinot Noir. Drink to 2035."
93 points. Anthony Mueller, The Wine Advocate (May 2024)

"Vines on granite clay. More intense than the 2023 Walker Bay Pinot in terms of fruit, weight, depth. Convex tannins, hawthorn-berry bite and bitterness. But also a sweetness to the tannins, and then wonderful notes of leaf and bark and mushroom. Stratified. Tension pulling into a drawstring finish. Drink to 2030."
17 points. Tamlyn Currin, jancisrobinson.com (October 2024)