A Taste of South Africa

Back in 1924, the professor of Viticulture at Stellenbosch University in the Cape, made a crossing of Pinot Noir and Cinsault (locally known as Hermitage in those days) that became known as Pinotage. Although it can be found in other countries, it is really in the Cape winelands where it is to be found today.

It is a grape variety that is packed with dark fruit flavours and usually has good body too. It can be tannic but modern winemaking techniques have given the ability to calm these and the slightly lower acidity makes for very easy drinking. 

Although a great food partner with rich winter dishes such as venison casseroles, it is also ideal at a barbecue and you can cool it slightly so it becomes very refreshing. Give it a go, it’s not expensive and you never know, you may get converted to the Cape’s favourite.