Not quite “Nom-Nom” — the name Nom actually means gratitude in Xhosa, and it also references Nomkhubulwane, an African goddess of agriculture. So it’s got a deeper cultural and spiritual meaning tied to the land and harvest, not the fun “yum-yum” phrase you might be thinking of. This Pinot Noir from the 2021 vintage has a spicy, peppery character with silky tannins and a balanced acidity, making it elegant and food-friendly. Definitely a wine with some thoughtful roots!

Jancisrobinson.com | JR 16.5
Published: Oct 24, 2022
Drink: 2024-2028

Name means gratitude.
Less sweet-fruited on the nose and more spicy/peppery than the Om Pinot. Fresh and spicy on the palate too. Tannins are finely chewy and very well handled so that they provide structure and a framework that fits the fruit.

Saurwein.co.za

Grape origin:
Kaaimansgat Vineyard, Elandskloof Valley, Villiersdorp. The soil is shale origin with a significant portion of granite in the topsoil and clay throughout. This vineyard lies at 700 m above sea-level and is surrounded by tall mountains, making for a unique terroir ideal for the optimal ripening of this cultivar. Pinot noir clones 115, 667 & 777. The vineyard was planted in 2008.

Vintage 2021:
This was an excellent vintage with ideal conditions for set and ripening. The wine offers intensity and power without weight. The tannin is silky, medium-grained and is supported by a lovely fresh acidity, which brings the desired tension.

Winemaking:
Grapes are hand-picked, hand-sorted, grapes are cold-soaked, fermentation is spontaneous, post-fermentation maceration is complete when the tannins are optimal, minimum of 10 months in 228-liter French oak barrels (new and older).

Descriptors of the nose:
Mixed red and dark berry fruit, rose hip, lifted cocoa, typical and the unique orange rind character imparted by the vineyard site

Descriptors of the flavour & palate:
Red and black cherry fruit, umami, roasted chestnuts, silky medium grained tannins, balanced acidity and the wine will gather further complexity with age.

The story:
Nom stands for nombulelo (gratitude in Xhosa) and Nomkhubulwane (a forgotten African goddess of agriculture). Situated at 700m altitude, the vineyard is a place where?gratitude is instilled and tales appear.

Ideal Cuisine:
Baked goats cheese crotin, French cuisine, North Indian mild curries, Asian-style dishes, fish, redmeat stews, poultry and especially duck.

Drink: 2022 -2030,

Alcohol: 14,1% 

Is it 'Nom-Nom'