Pinotage stands as a testament to South Africa’s unique viticultural landscape, embodying a rich history and a dynamic evolution within the world of wine.
Pinotage: South African History
Originating from the cross of Pinot noir and Cinsaut in 1924 by Abraham Izak Perold, the inaugural Professor of Viticulture at Stellenbosch University, Pinotage quickly established itself as South Africa’s signature grape variety. Perold’s endeavour aimed to marry the robustness of Cinsaut, known locally as “Hermitage,” with the esteemed qualities of Pinot noir, renowned for its enological challenges.
The serendipitous discovery of the four Pinotage seeds, initially planted by Perold and later rescued from obscurity by Charlie Niehaus, marked the inception of a journey that would shape the South African wine industry.
These seeds found their nurturing ground at Elsenburg Agricultural College under the care of Perold’s successor, CJ Theron. Grafted onto Richter 99 and Richter 57 rootstock, one vine emerged as the epitome of Perold’s vision and was anointed as Pinotage, destined to become an icon of South African viticulture.
The commercial debut of Pinotage in 1941 at Myrtle Grove near Sir Lowry’s Pass heralded a new era in South African winemaking. Notably, the Kanonkop Estate’s Pinotage plantings, initiated in the same year by Paul Sauer and Danie Rossouw, garnered international acclaim, with wines capable of maturing for decades.
The recognition culminated in the Bellevue wine’s triumph at the Cape Wine Show of 1959, igniting a wave of enthusiasm for Pinotage cultivation during the 1960s. Despite its early successes, Pinotage’s true renaissance unfolded in the late 20th century.
Pinotage: The Winner
Beyers Truter’s 1987 Diner’s Club Wine of the Year award catapulted Pinotage onto the global stage, catalysing a transformation in winemaking approaches.
A shift towards vibrant, fruit-forward expressions, eschewing excessive oak influence, underscored a newfound finesse in Pinotage production. From 2007 to 2017, Pinotage experienced a meteoric rise in quality, demand, and global presence. Domestically, sales surged, while exports burgeoned, contributing significantly to the local economy.
Initiatives such as the Absa Top 10 Pinotage Awards and the advocacy of the Pinotage Association bolstered Pinotage’s standing as a uniquely South African gem. Accolades like the 2017 Tim Atkin’s South African Red Wine of the Year reinforced Pinotage’s reputation for excellence, culminating in esteemed titles such as the Winemaker of the Year at the International Wine and Spirit Competition.
Pinotage’s allure extends beyond South Africa’s borders, with plantings observed in diverse terroirs worldwide. In New Zealand, the United States, and beyond, vintners have embraced Pinotage, adding their interpretations to the varietal’s narrative.
However, it is in South Africa where Pinotage finds its truest expression, occupying a hallowed place in “Cape blends” and spanning a spectrum of styles, from quaffable rosés to age-worthy reds.
The viticultural and winemaking intricacies of Pinotage underscore its characteristically bold profile.
Pinotage: About
Vigorous and early-ripening, Pinotage thrives in both trellised and bushvine systems, offering winemakers a canvas ripe for expression.
Vine age, yield management, and fermentation techniques play pivotal roles in shaping Pinotage’s sensory profile, from its characteristic fruitiness to nuanced tannins and acidity. Contemporary approaches to Pinotage winemaking embrace lighter styles, echoing the elegance of its Pinot noir parentage.
Pioneering winemakers explore earlier harvesting and whole-bunch fermentation to accentuate freshness and vibrancy, charting new territories in Pinotage’s vinous landscape. Pinotage stands as a beacon of South African winemaking, encapsulating a rich tapestry of tradition, innovation, and terroir expression.
Its journey from obscurity to global acclaim mirrors the resilience and ingenuity of South Africa’s wine industry, ensuring that Pinotage remains an enduring symbol of the country’s vinous heritage.
Pinotage Stanford Hills Estates
Stanford Hills Estates produces two very distinct Pinotage’s, the “Jackson Pinotage”, and the “Veldfire Pinotage”.
Jackson Pinotage
Jackson is the Flagship Pinotage and a prime example of cool climate Pinotage. After three years in bottle, this wine is still showing lively fruit flavours of red cherries, tomato leaf and plum, followed by subtle tertiary characters of tobacco and dried fig.
Veldfire Pinotage
The Veldfire is lively and smooth on the palate with delicate red fruit on the nose; raspberries, cherries and strawberry are all prominent while still maintaining a fine structure and balance.
With its picturesque vineyards, rustic wine tasting, and charming restaurant, Stanford Hills Estate offers a perfect blend of relaxation and culinary enjoyment. The lineup of wines, from the flagship Pinotage to the refreshing Sauvignon Blanc, showcases the unique terroir of the Overberg region, reflecting the dedication of Winemaker Peter Kastner and the quality of the estate’s vineyards.
Accommodation options, from self-catering cottages, newly renovated Villas, and a Manor House to luxury glamping tents, offer something for every taste, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the tranquillity of the estate while enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding area.
With its reputation as a sought-after wedding venue, Stanford Hills Estate provides a romantic backdrop for couples looking to tie the knot amidst the vineyards and Protea groves.
Overall, Stanford Hills Estate offers a complete experience, from wine tasting and dining to accommodation, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a memorable getaway in the Overberg region.
So, “Head for the hills”, make a reservation today! +27(0)72 639 6135 or follow our Facebook Page for more information.
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