Pinotage
Pinotage is a red grape variety originating in South Africa, created in 1925 by crossing Pinot Noir with Cinsaut (then locally known as Hermitage)[1]. The variety has since become emblematic of South African viticulture and is cultivated both domestically and in smaller quantities abroad.
Background
The development of Pinotage was undertaken at Stellenbosch University by viticulturist Abraham Izak Perold, who sought to combine the refined qualities of Pinot Noir with the vigour and adaptability of Cinsaut[2]. The resulting seedlings were initially overlooked, but were later propagated and gained commercial attention in the mid-20th century. The first wines labelled as Pinotage appeared in the early 1960s, and the grape was recognised within South Africa’s Wine of Origin (WO) scheme in subsequent decades[3].
Characteristics
Ampelographically, Pinotage is known for its early ripening, high yields, and tolerance to a range of vineyard conditions[4]. The variety produces wines that can exhibit pronounced dark fruit aromas, earthy undertones, and notes sometimes described as smoky or tar-like. Tannins can be robust, and careful vineyard and cellar management are essential to avoid overly rustic expressions[5].
Use in winemaking
Pinotage is most often vinified as a varietal red wine, but it is also employed in blends, including those styled after the so-called “Cape blend” alongside Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot[6]. It has been used in the production of fortified wines, rosé, and even sparkling styles. Within South Africa, notable concentrations of Pinotage are found in the Coastal Region, including Stellenbosch, Paarl, and Swartland, where differences in soil type and climate influence style. Outside its country of origin, limited plantings exist in New Zealand, the United States, and Canada, where it is typically marketed as a speciality variety.
In recent decades, modern viticultural practices and refined winemaking techniques—such as temperature-controlled fermentation and selective oak maturation—have contributed to improved balance and complexity in Pinotage wines[7].
See also
References
- ↑ Robinson, Harding & Vouillamoz, Wine Grapes, HarperCollins, 2012, ISBN 978-0062206367.
- ↑ Robinson (ed.), The Oxford Companion to Wine, Oxford University Press, 2015, ISBN 978-0198705383.
- ↑ Vitis International Variety Catalogue (VIVC), “Pinotage”, vivc.de.
- ↑ Johnson & Robinson, The World Atlas of Wine, 8th ed., Mitchell Beazley, 2019, ISBN 978-1784724030.
- ↑ Platter, Platter's South African Wine Guide 2023, John Platter, 2022, ISBN 978-1998952401.
- ↑ Robinson (ed.), The Oxford Companion to Wine, Oxford University Press, 2015, ISBN 978-0198705383.
- ↑ Johnson & Robinson, The World Atlas of Wine, 8th ed., Mitchell Beazley, 2019, ISBN 978-1784724030.