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The Kara-Tara Pinot Noir is a joint venture by Rudger van Wyk (Diners Club Young Winemaker of the Year 2018) and José Condé. The name Kara-Tara refers to a small town outside Knysna where Rudger lived. Kara-Tara translates from the Khoisan to “deep dark shadows” and this wine pays homage to this village. Made from 100% Pinot Noir, this wine spent 14 months in French oak, of which 10% was new oak. It is an elegant wine that is a true crowd pleaser, putting itself on a world stage. I have presented this wine next to some Burgundian Pinot Noirs and it certainly did not stand back for any other wine!
In the glass, it has a bright Burgundy colour. It is forthcoming on the nose with red fruit, spice and a hint of forest floor. It delivers well on the palate, with bramble berries, sour red cherries, balsamic, cumin, marzipan, tree bark and a hint of minerality. It has soft grainy tannins that stand back a bit for the fruit to come forward. It remains fresh on the palate and finishes with a red fruit, earthy and mineral exit. This wine is rather unpretentious, elegant and moreish.
This Pinot Noir benefits well from a slight chill and a glass with a large bowl. It can be enjoyed on its own or with food. It will compliment a wide range of foods, including lamb chops, potjiekos, ostrich steak or carpaccio. It is ready to drink now or within the next ten years. This is a beautiful Pinot Noir, at a fair price.
Producer: Stark-Condé/Kara-Tara
Variety: Pinot Noir 100%
Vintage: 2020
Origin: Elgin, Western Cape, South Africa
Winemaker: Rudger van Wyk
Closure: Cork
Alcohol: 13%
RS: 2.09g/l
Average price: R240
Rating: 92/100
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