Lightly firm, with a briary thread weaving in and around the red licorice, cherry skin and steeped plum notes. A perfumy sandalwood accent chimes in on the finish. Drink now. 730 cases made.??–JM??Region: South Africa / Western Cape / Elgin Select to Add

The 2009 Seven Flags Pinot Noir has a broody, introspective bouquet compared to its peers. The palate is fresh and vibrant on the entry with notes of cranberry leaf, raspberry and a hint of balsamic. The palate is well balanced with orange rind and sour cherries on the entry. There is pleasing bitter edge to this Pinot that neatly counterbalances the forward red-berries that define the rustic finish. This is a relatively complex Pinot that deserves contemplation. Drink 2013-2020. Importer: World Premiere Wines LLC, Mooresville, NC;. Tel: (704) 360 4208.

The flagship 2008 Seven Flags Pinot Noir is a winery selection of the finest barrels, but I suspect that the challenging growing season limited its potential. The nose is savoury with touches of dried herbs, whilst the palate is again rather savoury on the entry and marked by a dry finish that implies it would have been better one year ago. Neurosurgeon Dr. Paul Cluver owns the eponymous 2,500-hectare estate in Elgin, of which 90-hectares are under vine. It is a family affair. Winemaker Andreas Burger (recently elected to the prestigious Cape Winemakers Guild) is married to daughter and financial director, Inge Cluver. Their portfolio focuses on classic varieties, in particular a splendid Chardonnay and commendable Pinot Noir from Burgundy clones.Importer: World Premier Wines, Mooresville, NC. Tel 704-360-0962.

Spicy forest and used coffee grind aromas mingle with notes of small red berries and red plum flesh. Lively and juicy but elegant in the mouth with medium tannins and a white pepper-dusted finish. ——L.B.(6/1/2011)—— 88