What heck is Pinotage? It’s a robust, spicy, viticulture cross of Pinot Noir and Hermitage (also known as Cinsaut) grapes. In 1925, Abraham Izak Perold, the first professor of viticulture at Stellenbosch University, in the Western Cape of South Africa, physically brushed a male Hermitage (Cinsaut) flower against a Pinot Noir pollen donor, an oddball duo. Its speculated that Perold was trying to combine the rich burgundy flavor of Pinot Noir, a finicky grape to grow, with hearty Hermitage, a sturdy and easy-to-grow varietal, to meld their feature characteristics. Although it only makes up about 6% of grapes planted in the country, Pinotage has since, become South Africa’s signature grape. Known for its rustic red hue and smoky, earthy overtones layered with dark fruit, it’s terrific with brai (South African BBQ), grilled meats, and root veggies.Let’s go!Stef’s Cribsheet – Pinotage!1. FirstCape Sparkling Pinotage Rose’, NV, Stellenbosch, $16Bright and bubbly, filled with strawberry and cherry flavors the tannin on the mid-body and finish make it a delight with light bites. 2. Fairview Pinotage, Paarl, $12With a nutty, banana nose, this bang for your buck Pinotage is jam packed with assorted sweet red fruit and constrained smoke and charcoal undertones. Vibrant and juicy, it partners perfectly with spicy sausages, smoked meats, and Mexican mole’. 3. Eshkol Winery, Pinotage, 2004, Paarl, $14Sporting a hefty 14% alcohol, sip with care. Somewhat, tannic it’s gritty grip holds on to hearty fare, while the fresh Bing cherry and red plum flush out flavors. Great with pasta bolognaise, chili con carne, burgers, meatloaf, and grilled Portobello mushrooms. 4. Bellevue “Tumara” Pinotage, 2006, Stellenbosch, $15Sporting surprising soft, delicate spicy berry aromas it’s a lovely balanced wine showcasing bright cherry fruit with an under layer of holiday spices. It’s a versatile sipper with buttoned-up and casual suppers.5. Kanonkop Pinotage, Stellenbosch, 2005, $29This elegant well structured wine sports bright acidity, restrained cherry and red plum that swirl with vanilla and touch of tannin. Supple and round, it has a luscious lingering finish and is a wonderful dinner wine with meats and mushrooms. Stefani Jackenthal, Director of NTS Wine Tasting, LLC. (specializing in private, corporate, and monthly wine tastings & dinners). www.StefJack.com/wine or NTSWineTasting@stefjack.com.
