Located in a hidden valley in Walker Bay, on the southern tip of Africa, sits the Bouchard Finlayson Wine Estate. Founded in 1989 by Paul Bouchard and Peter Finlayson, the company plants just 22 of its 125 hectare site leaving the rest for wild indigenous Fynbos and flora.
Bouchard Finlayson is known worldwide for its Pinot Noir and Peter is often regarded as one of the pioneers of the variety in the country. Finlayson’s Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc are also often praised. The company’s flagship brand is the Glapin Peak Pinot Noir. We were eager to open this bottle and, because of its reputation, it had us feeling excited.
Barrel matured for 10 months in French oak, the flavour profile is dark and rich. There’s a lot of red berry and forest fruit and the tannins are soft. Many say that this is a ‘new-world burgundy’ and we would agree thanks to the peppery spice. The nose offers cherry notes and also has woodland/earthy elements.
The obvious food pairing is a roast lamb or poultry stew but we would enjoy with peppered venison.