The cellar index

WineCollection 21

Pinotage

South Africa's signature crossing offers dark fruit, savoury detail and varied styles.

Origin & traditionSouth Africa

Character & context

Understanding Pinotage

Pinotage comes from Pinot Noir and Cinsault. It can be made as a lighter, fresh red or a more concentrated wine with substantial oak influence, and also appears in Cape blends. Coffee-like notes are one stylistic direction rather than a requirement. Judge fruit clarity, tannin and balance before relying on a single stereotype.

Further reading: Wine Folly — Pinotage

Read related observations