Wine Reviews: Pinotage

A few months back, I mentioned Pinotage in a post on Meritage. As a refresher, remember the two terms are completely unrelated! Meritage is an American term that refers to red wine made with grapes from the traditional Bordeaux style blend. (Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Malbec). Pinotage, on the other hand, is the name of a grape! Pinotage is a cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsault. Plus, it is most notably grown in South Africa. Check out the details and my review on my lasting Pinotage tasting below!

My Thursday Night Pinotage Tasting.

To understand Pinotage, it may be helpful to understand it's "parent grapes." Cinsault is commonly found in the South of France or in red blends produced in Chateauneuf-du-Pape. On it's own, Cinsault makes some low quality wines but brings some distinct savory characteristics to red blends. Some common flavors include: cherry, pepper and even a
"meaty" aspect. In comparison, Pinot Noir definitely "wears the pants" in this relationship. It's a noble grape, known for it's light bodied flavors of cranberry, cherry or raspberry, medium high acidity and low tannin. It is also high maintenance on the vine and sometimes problematic to grow.

Together, they create Pinotage, which has hints of berry fruit up front with a spicy, almost meaty finish, moderate acidity and moderate tannin. Check out my tasting notes below:

Fairview Pinotage 2012

Where it's from. Paarl, South Africa. (Approximately 20 miles from Cape Town)

My thoughts. Overall, this was a fun wine with some interesting flavors. The color was beautiful, a deep, almost slightly burnt, magenta. The aroma was stong, but  not overwhelming, and including dark berry scents. Finally, the taste was super smooth with mild acidity and moderate tannin. Flavors of black pepper and earth were most notable. This wine is not for timid wine drinkers, but it's not as adventurous as orange wines or bold Bordeaux blends. (Orange wines do exist and are definitely a conversation for another day).

Cheers!