Bouchard Finlayson wines from the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley
Bouchard Finlayson is one of the best-known wineries in South Africa's Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. The estate lies only a few kilometres from the sea in a landscape shaped by cool maritime influences, ancient soils and a sheltered position between mountains and coast. These conditions are particularly well suited to elegant, balanced wines with freshness and a clear sense of origin.
Bouchard Finlayson was founded in 1989 by Burgundian winemaker Paul Bouchard and South African winemaker Peter Finlayson. Both shared the conviction that the then still young wine-growing area offered excellent conditions for Pinot Noir. Peter Finlayson is now regarded as one of the pioneers of this demanding grape variety in South Africa. The estate has been owned by the Tollman family since 2000.
The vineyards were planned according to Burgundian principles and adapted to the particular conditions of the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. Proximity to the sea moderates temperatures and allows the grapes to ripen slowly. As a result, the wines develop a combination of fruit, freshness and fine structure. The grapes are hand-harvested at different times depending on the ripeness of the individual parcels.
Bouchard Finlayson is particularly renowned for its Pinot Noirs. Galpin Peak Pinot Noir is considered one of the estate's signature wines and combines fine fruit with spice and an elegant tannin structure. Tête de Cuvée, produced only in selected vintages, represents the pinnacle of the Pinot Noir range.
Chardonnay also plays an important role. Missionvale Chardonnay is made exclusively from grapes grown in the estate's own vineyards. Maturation in wooden barrels and terracotta amphorae gives it structure without masking its freshness and typical citrus aromas. The range is complemented by Sauvignon Blanc and other white and red wines.
One speciality is Hannibal, an unusual red blend that combines French and Italian grape varieties. The range therefore reflects both the estate's Burgundian influence and its willingness to pursue its own South African path.
An approximately 100-hectare conservation area surrounds the vineyards. Native fynbos vegetation of the Cape Floral Kingdom is preserved there. Viticulture and nature conservation are therefore closely linked at Bouchard Finlayson.
Bouchard Finlayson stands for elegant cool-climate wines that clearly express their grape variety and origin. Discover selected Pinot Noirs, Chardonnays and other wines from this historic Hemel-en-Aarde Valley estate at Vin Africa.