Fifth annual Hemel-en-Aarde Pinot Noir Celebration
As a wine growing region that produces site-specific wines of excellence, Hemel-en-Aarde needs no introduction.
Situated a shell’s throw from the popular coastal town of Hermanus, this prestigious region in the Walker Bay district is divided into three distinct appellations, namely Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, Upper Hemel-and-Aarde Valley, and Hemel-and-Aarde Ridge.
The area thrives on the production of fine Chardonnay and Pinot noir.The spotlight is shone on the latter at the annual Hemel-en-Aarde Pinot Noir Celebration, which aims to reveal the subtle differences each appellation offers, with a festive two-day event that weaves together wine and culinary culture – an unmatched selection of Pinot noir and gourmet grub.
Now in its fifth year, the prestigious event will be held on 26 and 2/January 2018 at a brand-new venue with an immersive format and itinerary. “As 201 / has been stellar for the Hemel-en-Aarde Winegrowers Association and producers alike, we would like to celebrate our region’s’rock star’cultivar, Pinot noir,” said Craig Wessels, newly appointed chairman of the association.
“The brief to the Pinot Noir Celebration task team was not just to plan a remarkable event, but to tailor an environment that is created to be informative and enhance the laid-back experience that the Hemel-and-Aarde producers embrace.”
Having amped up the creativity, 2018 promises to be a glorious weekend showcase of world-class Pinot noir.
The Hemel-en-Aarde Pinot Noir Celebration 2018 will primarily be a seated fine wine showcase featuring Michael Fridjhon as master of ceremonies, presenting it in an engaging and entertaining format with the wine-makers. Throughout the weekend scores of small, thematic and intimate events will be held around the Hemel-en-Aarde.
Highlights will include tutored tastings by the likes of Burgundian wine producer Jean Marie Fourrier from famed Domaine Fourrier in Gevrey-Chambertin. Renowned local Pinot-makers include Ataraxia, Bosman Family Vineyards, Bouchard Finlayson, Creation, Domaine des Dieux, Hamilton Russell Vineyards, La Vierge, Newton Johnson Wines, Restless River, Storm Wines, Sumaridge and Whalehaven.
The weekend will be wrapped up in a secret forest location at a striking new venue, Nidderdale, where guests can mingle and relax under brilliant skies in the company of the local wine-makers. Keep an eye out for celebrated chefs Pete Goffe-Wood, George Jardine, Nic van Wyk and Franck Dangereaux, who will be providing a sleek theatre of food.
A ticket grants you total weekend access to sip and savour this one-of-a-kind, immersive Pinot noir event in one of the most beautiful wine-growing regions in the world.
For bookings and more event information, contact Tanja Fourie (general manager) at tanja@hemelenaarde wines.com or visit pinotnoircelebration.co.za