Pinotage: South Africa’s flagship grape variety

Get ready to explore South Africa's captivating and iconic wines with the Pinotage grape variety. Originating from this daring land, Pinotage offers unique red wines, combining intense fruitiness, aromatic complexity and a touch of South African terroir.

What is the origin and history of the Pinotage grape variety?

The history of Pinotage begins in the 1920s, when Professor Abraham Izak Perold, a passionate geneticist, decided to cross the noble grape varieties Pinot Noir and Cinsault (known locally as "Hermitage"). His objective was to create a new grape variety that would combine the delicacy of Pinot Noir with the resistance and vigor of Cinsault, adapted to the South African climate and terroir.

Thus was born Pinotage , this bold grape variety that reflects the pioneering spirit of South Africa. However, the history of Pinotage was not without its challenges. For decades, it was considered a controversial grape variety, criticized for its particular characteristics and sometimes confusing aromatic profile.

But times have changed, and Pinotage has reinvented itself and conquered the palates of wine lovers around the world. Today, it has become the wine emblem of South Africa, a symbol of its unique identity in the world of wine.

What aromas and flavors can be found in Pinotage grape wines?

Pinotage wines reveal a bouquet of complex and captivating aromas. When you immerse yourself in a glass of this South African nectar, you will be transported by seductive notes of juicy red fruits, such as cherry, strawberry and wild raspberry. These aromas will caress your senses, calling you to an unforgettable taste adventure.

But that's not all, dear taste seeker! Pinotage varietal wines can also reveal subtle nuances of exotic spices, such as cinnamon, cloves and vanilla. These spices add an intriguing dimension to these bold wines, creating a symphony of flavors that will transport you to the farthest reaches of South Africa.

On the palate, Pinotage wines will surprise you with their medium to full body, with supple tannins and balanced acidity. Their firm structure and velvety texture blend harmoniously with the fruity aromas, creating a captivating and balanced taste experience.

And let's not forget their potential for development! The best Pinotage wines can age gracefully, developing complex notes of leather, tobacco and underbrush, adding extra depth and elegance to your wine journey.

What are the main wine regions in South Africa where Pinotage is grown?

The first stage of our expedition to South Africa takes us to the Western Cape region, where Pinotage has found a welcoming land conducive to its flourishing. Stellenbosch, with its picturesque landscapes and Mediterranean climate, is one of the strongholds of Pinotage. Here, the captivating vineyards produce rich and balanced wines, revealing the quintessence of this iconic grape variety.

Let's continue our journey towards the Franschhoek Valley, nicknamed "the French corner of South Africa ". In the heart of these green valleys, the Pinotage vines rival the surrounding mountains in beauty. Passionate winegrowers craft wines of remarkable aromatic intensity and elegance, reflecting the harmony between the terroir and the grape variety.

Let's continue our adventure to the Swartland region, where Pinotage flourishes under the blazing sun and refreshing sea winds. Here, the granite soils give the wines a powerful structure and intense aromas, creating wines of character that reflect the very essence of the terroir.

Finally, let's head to the coastal region of Walker Bay, where the influence of the Atlantic Ocean lends a welcome freshness to the vineyards. In this spectacular coastal landscape, Pinotage finds a subtle balance between fruity richness and salty freshness, giving rise to wines of remarkable finesse.

Who are the renowned Pinotage producers in South Africa?

Our journey begins at Kanonkop, an iconic winery located in the Stellenbosch region. Here, the Sauer family has continued a winemaking heritage for generations, producing Pinotages renowned for their elegance and ability to age gracefully. These wines captivate the senses, offering a subtle balance between ripe fruit, spices and velvety tannins.

Let's continue our expedition towards the Swartland region, where the Sadie Family Wines estate awaits us. Eben Sadie, visionary winemaker, is considered one of the pioneers of artisanal viticulture in South Africa. Its Pinotage wines express all the richness of the terroir, with a depth and complexity that captivate connoisseurs.

Let's continue our adventure towards the Walker Bay region, where Hamilton Russell Vineyards welcomes us. Anthony Hamilton Russell and his family have established an enviable reputation for producing exceptionally elegant Pinotages. Their delicate and refined wines express coastal freshness, with subtle aromas of red fruits, floral notes and captivating minerality.

In the Franschhoek valley, we discover the Boekenhoutskloof estate, known for its production of high quality wines. Their Pinotage embodies the passion and commitment of the winemakers, offering wines of surprising complexity, with intense aromas of black fruits, exotic spices and an impressive length in the mouth.

Finally, let's not forget the Pinotage wines produced by Beyerskloof, an essential reference in South Africa. With a long tradition in the winemaking of this grape variety, Beyerskloof offers rich, fruity and balanced wines, which reveal the best of South African Pinotage.

How to pair Pinotage grape wines with food?

Pinotage , this intrepid South African grape variety, offers a rich and complex aromatic and taste palette, making it a partner of choice for many dishes. Here are some suggestions to enhance the experience:

1. Grilled meats: Pinotage goes wonderfully with grilled meats. Imagine enjoying a juicy steak, grilled to perfection, accompanied by a glass of Pinotage. The aromas of ripe fruit and spices blend with the smoky and caramelized flavors of the meat, creating a captivating culinary harmony.

2. Roast lamb: The fruity and spicy notes of Pinotage bring out the tenderness and flavor of roast lamb. Whether it's slow-braised lamb shoulder or grilled chops, the combination of lamb and Pinotage is a true feast for the senses.

3. Spicy cuisine: Pinotage is an ideal companion for spicy cuisine. Whether it's an Indian curry, spicy Moroccan dishes or spicy Asian dishes, the complex aromas of Pinotage harmonize with the spices, creating a dance of taste where the flavors intertwine elegantly.

4. Mature cheeses: Let yourself be tempted by the combination between Pinotage and mature cheeses. The supple tannins of the wine mingle with the creamy textures of the cheeses, while the fruity aromas of the wine bring an additional dimension to the tasting. Opt for soft or semi-soft cheeses, such as Brie, Camembert or Gouda.

5. Dark chocolate: For lovers of sweets, discover the exquisite pairing between Pinotage and dark chocolate. The fruity and spicy aromas of the wine combine with the intense notes of dark chocolate, creating a captivating taste experience. Choose a chocolate with a high percentage of cocoa for a perfect match.