Pinotage

Pinotage is a uniquely South African grape variety. There are now plantings in other countries, but the origin of Pinotage is South African and it has achieved international success.  Pinotage is a grape variety that was created in South Africa in 1925 by Abraham Izak Perold, the first Professor of Viticulture at Stellenbosch University.

Because of the efforts of South African makers of Pinotage wines. South Africa has both practical and patriotic reasons for aggressively promoting Pinotage as a grape varietal which provides wines of superior quality, wines which can hold their own against any varietal from any wine-growing region of the world. Pinotage is the trump card of the South African wine industry. This is the philosophy that underlies the existence of the Pinotage Association.

In addition to South Africa, Pinotage is also grown in Brazil, Canada, Israel, New Zealand, United States and Zimbabwe. In New Zealand, there are 94 acres (38 ha) of Pinotage. In the US, there are plantings in California and Virginia.  German winemakers have recently begun experimenting with the grape.

The majority of the world's plantings of Pinotage is found in South Africa, where it makes up just 6% of the vineyard area but is considered a symbol of the country's distinctive winemaking traditions. It is a required component (30-70%) in "Cape blends".

Here it is made into the full range of styles, from easy-drinking quaffing wine and rosé to barrel-aged wine intended for cellaring. It is also made into a fortified 'port' style, and even a red sparkling wine. The latest and fastest growing trend is the production of coffee styled Pinotage.

The grape is very dependent on the skill and style of winemaking, with well made examples having the potential to produce deep coloured, fruity wines that can be accessible early as well as age.