Pinotage

The Pinotage is the signature grape variety of South Africa, created in 1925 by the winemaker Abraham Perold by crossing Pinot Noir and Cinsault (at the time called Hermitage in South Africa, hence the name "Pinotage"). This grape variety combines the elegance of Pinot Noir with the the resistance and productivity of Cinsault, giving rise to wines structured, intense and one of a kind.

Pinotage is versatile and can be vinified in different styles, from full-bodied reds to sparkling wines and sweet fortified wines. Characterised by notes of black fruit, spice, smoke and chocolate, can take on distinctive hints of banana and acetone, depending on the winemaking.

Characteristics of the Pinotage Grape Variety

Agronomic Aspects:

Origin: South Africa (a cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsault).
Climate: Warm, dry Mediterranean, perfect for optimal ripening.
Soil: It prefers sandy, clay and schist soils, which bring out its aromatic complexity.

Grape Characteristics:

Berry: Thick skin, deep blue-black in colour.
Aromatic profile: Fruity, spicy and smoky notes, with a typical hint of banana and smoke.

Wines Made from Pinotage

Colour:

Red: Intense ruby red with purple reflections.
Rosé: Pale pink, with good acidity.
Sparkling wine: Méthode Cap Classique (MCC), with fruity aromas and creamy effervescence.

Aromas:

Fruity: Blackberries, plums, cherries, banana, blackcurrant.
Floral: Violet, wild flowers.
Spicy: Cinnamon, black pepper, nutmeg.
Toasty: Coffee, dark chocolate, tobacco.
Smoked foods: Tar, leather, notes of embers and smoke.

Palate:

Structured and full-bodied: Noticeable tannins, but round.
Fruity and spicy: Great aromatic persistence.
Soft and smoky: In the wines aged longer in wood.

Growing Areas

Pinotage is grown mainly in South Africa, in particular in the regions:

Stellenbosch: Production of full-bodied, long-lived Pinotage.
Paarl: Softer, fruitier styles.
Swartland: More rustic expressions, with intense smoky notes.
Walker Bay: Elegant, fresh Pinotage, thanks to the more temperate climate.

Outside South Africa, it is grown in New Zealand, California and Brazil, but with very limited areas.

Types of Pinotage-Based Wine

Classic Pinotage: Structured, spicy, with smoky notes.
Rosé Pinotage: Lighter and fresher, with notes of strawberry and cherry.
Fortified Pinotage: Sweet and fortified, similar to a Port.
Cap Classique Method Pinotage: An elegant, fruity sparkling wine.

Food Pairings

Red Meat: South African BBQ (braai), grilled steak.
Game: Venison, wild boar, duck in a spiced sauce.
Smoked Dishes: Meat stews, smoked cheeses.
Exotic Dishes: Spicy Asian cuisine, Cajun-inspired dishes.

Why Choose a Pinotage?

The grape variety that symbolises South Africa, with a unique character. A great range of styles, from full-bodied reds to sparkling wines. Perfect for pairing with spicy and smoked dishes.