Pinotage (2022) - Simonsig

Pinotage is an indigenous South African variety, born from a crossing of Pinot Noir and Cinsault. It is known for its intense aromas and its characteristic smoky aftertaste. Simonsig is one of the historic producers of Stellenbosch, famous for its Pinotage and for having made the first South African Metodo Classico (Cap Classique).

The appellation: WO Stellenbosch

WO Stellenbosch (Wine of Origin Stellenbosch) is one of the most prestigious wine regions in South Africa, in the Western Cape province, east of Cape Town. This appellation is part of the Wine of Origin (WO) system, which regulates and guarantees the authenticity and quality of South African wines, similar to the French AOCs or the Italian DOCs. Stellenbosch is the heart of South African wine production and is home to some of the country’s most renowned wineries. The Mediterranean climate with an oceanic influence, combined with diverse soils and varying altitudes, makes it possible to obtain structured, complex, long-lived wines, both red and white.

What to eat with Pinotage

Who makes it: Simonsig

Simonsig is one of the most iconic wineries in South Africa, in the renowned region of Stellenbosch. Founded in 1968 by the Malan family, Simonsig was the first estate to produce a South African Metodo Classico, Kaapse Vonkel, laying the foundations for the success of MCC (Méthode Cap Classique). The winery’s philosophy is based on sustainability, quality and innovation, with a constant commitment to excellence at every stage of wine production.

The vine of Pinotage

Pinotage

Pinotage is the emblematic variety of South Africa, created in 1925 by the oenologist Abraham Perold by crossing Pinot Noir and Cinsault (at the time called Hermitage in South Africa, hence the name "Pinotage"). This variety combines the elegance of Pinot Noir with the hardiness and productivity of Cinsault, giving rise to structured, intense wines that are unique of their kind. Pinotage is versatile and can be vinified in different styles, from full-bodied reds to sparkling wines and even sweet fortified wines. Marked by notes of black fruit, spices, smoke and chocolate, it can take on distinctive hints of banana and acetone, depending on the winemaking.

Pinotage: the Stellenbosch area

Climate: Mediterranean

Altitude: Low Altitude (0-200 m above sea level)

Soil: Clay

Geographical setting: Ocean

Profile of Pinotage

Primary aromas: Black fruits (plum, blackberry, dark cherry), Red fruit (raspberry, strawberry) and Floral notes (violet)

Secondary aromas: Sweet spices (vanilla, cloves) and Smoky and toasted notes

Tertiary aromas: Hints of leather and tobacco

Tasting notes: The Pinotage 2022 from Simonsig is an intense, structured wine, with a full body and well-integrated tannins. The palate is rich in ripe black fruit, followed by spicy notes and light toasty shades from the ageing in wood. Its moderate acidity brings balance, while the finish is long and lingering, with a smoky aftertaste typical of the variety.