Cellar Favorite: 2016 Storm Wines Pinot Noir Vrede

BY NEAL MARTIN | SEPTEMBER 15, 2025

During a Burgundy and (I prefer that word to “versus”) South Africa Chardonnay/Pinot Noir dinner in Stellenbosch, it was abundantly clear that the Cape offers immense potential with respect to those grape varieties. As vines age, one can only imagine the heights that are achievable. One standout that evening came courtesy of winemaker Hannes Storm, whose brother owns an identically named winery in California.

The 2016 Pinot Noir Vrede is a doppelganger for a Burgundy. In my original review seven years ago, I likened this Hemel-en-Aarde wine to a Pommard and rued that there was insufficient weight at the backend. Now nine years old, the 2016 has gained more density and retained an exquisite ethereal quality that brings to mind Gevrey-Chambertin. The nose reveals brambly dark red fruit laced with loam and hints of cold black tea. The palate manages to convey a sense of weightlessness whilst asserting grip on the finish. It is a charming, soulful Pinot Noir that is drinking beautifully now and will do so for another decade, possibly more. Like so many South African wines, the Vrede represents outstanding value. 92/Drink 2025-2037. 

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