If you’re looking for a bold, expressive red wine with a unique flavor profile, look no further than our Pinotage collection. Known for its distinctive taste, Pinotage is a South African grape variety that blends the best of both its parent varieties, Pinot Noir and Cinsault, resulting in a wine that’s full of character and complexity.
Pinotage is a red grape variety that was first developed in South Africa in the 1920s by crossing Pinot Noir with Cinsault, creating a wine that combines the finesse and elegance of Pinot Noir with the boldness and fruitiness of Cinsault. Over the years, Pinotage has become a signature variety for South African winemaking, producing wines that are rich, robust, and full of unique flavors.
The flavor profile of Pinotage is characterized by dark fruit notes such as blackberry, plum, and dark cherry, along with distinctive smoky, earthy, and sometimes even banana-like flavors that set it apart from other red wines. Depending on the winemaking style, Pinotage can range from smooth and fruity to more complex and full-bodied, with tannins that provide structure and depth. Some examples of Pinotage are aged in oak to impart additional layers of flavor, such as vanilla and spice, while others remain fresher and fruit-forward.
Key characteristics of Pinotage wines include:
- Color: Deep ruby to purple.
- Flavor: Dark fruit flavors of blackberry, plum, and dark cherry, with smoky, earthy, and sometimes banana-like notes. Oak-aged versions show hints of vanilla, spice, and toast.
- Body: Medium to full-bodied, with firm tannins and balanced acidity.
- Finish: Smooth, with lingering dark fruit and smoky flavors.
Pinotage is an incredibly versatile wine when it comes to food pairings. Its bold flavors and smoky undertones make it an excellent companion for grilled meats, such as steak, lamb, and sausages, as well as barbecued dishes. The wine also pairs well with hearty stews, roast game birds, and aged cheeses like cheddar or gouda. For a more adventurous pairing, try Pinotage with spicy dishes such as Indian curry or Moroccan tagine.
Explore the bold, distinctive flavors of Pinotage in our collection and discover why this unique South African wine is a must-try for those seeking something different and exciting in their wine journey.