Wine Encyclopedia/Red Grapes/Pinotage
Red WineSouth Africa

Pinotage

South Africa's own grape variety, created in 1925 by crossing Pinot Noir with Cinsaut. It produces distinctive wines ranging from fruity and accessible to bold and smoky.

BodyMedium
AcidityMedium
TanninsMedium
SweetnessDry
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Pinotage was created by Professor Abraham Perold who planted the seeds in his garden and forgot about them until rescued by a colleague.

๐Ÿ‘ƒ Tasting Notes

Primary Flavors

PlumRaspberryBanana

Secondary Flavors

CoffeeSmokeChocolateMarshmallow

Aromas

AcetonePaintBurnt rubber (in some styles)

๐ŸŒ Famous Wine Regions

Stellenbosch

South Africa
Best expressions

Premium region producing refined Pinotage

Swartland

South Africa
Artisanal style

Old bush vines, natural winemaking

Paarl

South Africa
Accessible style

Warm region with rich, fruity wines

Western Cape

South Africa
Value wines

Broad region, diverse styles

๐Ÿฝ๏ธ Perfect Food Pairings

Bobotie
BBQ meats
Burgers
Smoked brisket
Spicy sausages

๐ŸŒก๏ธ Serving Guide

Temperature

16-18ยฐC (61-65ยฐF)

Glass Type

Standard red wine glass

Decanting

30 minutes

โณ Aging Potential

3-10 years

All Grape Varieties