Stellenbosch, South Africa – 100% Pinotage
Deep ruby in the glass, with violets, ripe blackberry and cherry over hints of graphite and allspice. The palate is full-bodied and generous, with dense, ripe dark fruit and smooth, velvety tannins. Eighteen months in French, American and Hungarian oak add layers and the structure to age well past a decade.
Pour it with something hearty: barbecued lamb chops or venison fillet, or, for a true South African touch, sumac-crusted ostrich fillet. For a vegetarian option, try a rich, cheesy eggplant parmigiana.
The estate dates back to 1692, and this range is named for the historic Cape Dutch gables that are still preserved on the property. The vines grow on decomposed granite near False Bay, where cool ocean breezes slow the ripening. South Africa’s signature grape was created in 1925, when Professor Abraham Perold crossed Pinot Noir with Cinsault.