Benguela Cove is located in the Walker Bay sub-region, just an hour's drive from Cape Town International Airport. Situated on the edge of the Bot River Lagoon, the area teems with birdlife and natural flora and fauna, with the Atlantic Ocean on the horizon. The estate, which comprises 70 hectares of vines, was purchased in 2013 by entrepreneur Penny Streeter. The estate has been recognized for its craftsmanship, led by experienced cellar master Johann Fourie.
The Pinot Noir grapes are hand-picked at peak ripeness, followed by rigorous sorting of the bunches and berries. Upon arrival at the winery, a four-day cold soaking period follows to extract maximum color and flavor nuances. Ten percent of the grapes ferment as whole bunches, the rest as whole berries. Once fermentation is complete, the wine is aged for a further 10 months in French oak barrels, 30 percent of which are new wood.
The Benguela Cove Pinot Noir empties bright red in the glass with a rich palette of aromas of red fruit, plums, mulberries, violets, and chocolate. This is complemented by fennel and dried oregano. The palate offers layers of fruit and complex flavor nuances. Flavors of Turkish delight and spice, wrapped in soft, creamy tannins with a hint of violets. It is powerful yet retains the finesse we expect from Pinot Noir. This wine pairs well with both savory and sweet dishes.
