Storm 2014 Vrede Pinot Noir (Hemel-en-Aarde Valley)

Soft earthy spice and sweet cured-bacon aromas are at the front of the bouquet here, with supporting fruit tones of brambly berries, wild strawberry, peach pit, fruit cake, sweet smoke and rooibos. There's a real mélange of aromas and flavors here, just stunning, with more nuance and complexity discovered with each sniff and sip. Bright, snappy red berry fruits abound on the palate, while hints of sous bois, tree bark and cocoa nib unfold on the close. It's medium in weight, well-composed and balanced, with a smooth, suave and silky texture. Lauren Buzzeo