South Africa is a hot climate region for a wine country. The region is well known for full-bodied savory reds and rich fruity whites
Wine region by size
On 250,000 acres (102,000 ha), almost 30 different areas in which a huge majority of wine grapes used are for Brandy!
Top Grapes of South Africa
WHITE
Chenin Blanc is most visible in Paarl, Swarland and Stellenbosch,
Chardonnay, Walker Bay and Elgin
Sémillon in Franschhoek and Stellenbosch
RED
Cabernet Sauvignon is in Stellenbosch and Paarl
Pinotage is in Paarrl, Stellenbosch and Swarland.
Syrah is in Stellenbosch, Paarl and Swarland too.
WHAT is this Pinotage?
FRUIT 4/5 - BODY 5/5 - TANNIN 4/5 - ACIDITY 2/5 - ALCOHOL 5/5
PLEASURE 0 to 5
Primary flavors: ripe red fruit - jam - leather - campfire - tobacco
Pairing: bacon, ribs, bacon, burritos, bacon, sausage
Pinotage is the most planted grape in South Africa and has been created in 1925 by a Stellenbosch University Professor of viticulture and specially selected for propagation and quantity. This strange concept of two grapes, Cinsault and Pinot Noir which made the first wine in 1941...
Despite the reputation for its smooth cultivation, Pinotage has not escaped criticism. A common complaint is the tendency to develop a paint smell...
This South Africa signature Pinotage grapes can age in the bottle for 5 years but despite being across from a Burgundy and Rhône grape, Pinotage reflects none of the flavors of a European wine!!!
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 the 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 wine' styleacross 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 colored, fruity wines that can be accessible early as well as age(?). ( Wikipedia)
Have a South African sip in ViV!