Pinotage

Pinotage is a significant and quintessentially South African red wine grape variety. This grape dates back to 1925 and was born from the cross breeding of two varieties, Pinot Noir and Cinsaut (known then as Hermitage,) hence the nomenclature 'Pinotage'. It was creating by Abraham Izak Perold, the first Professor of Viticulture at the University of Stellenbosch.

It is distinguished by its inherent robustness, enabling it to thrive in diverse climates, and its ability to yield intensely fruity wines. This bold grape variety crafts wines that are deeply coloured with vivid aromas reflecting a slew of fruits, from blackberries and blueberries to plums and bananas. Some Pinotage wines also exhibit earthy undertones of leather, truffles, and even a unique smoky tobbaco twist, whilst others lean towards spicy flavours set against a background of ripe and dark fruit.

The appeal of Pinotage comes from its bold character, full-bodied nature, and its ample versatility. It can be used to make a variety of wines, some of which are aged and others left to display the fruit at its most raw. It's also known to be blended excellently with other grape varieties.

Despite its origin, the popularity of Pinotage has since reached far beyond South African shores, and it’s now grown in several other parts of the wine world, including the United States, New Zealand and even England.

Over the years, Pinotage has risen and fallen in favour, demonstrating resilience in its survival. Whilst it remains a divisive grape amongst the wine community, with critics’ opinions veering between adoration and disdain, Pinotage continues to scope its own, unique trajectory, undeterred and undaunted.

Ultimately, this unique grape is a representation of South Africa's indomitable wine-making spirit. Whether one savours the flavour profile or not, the Pinotage grape is undeniably the veritable spice in the global wine cocktail.

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