Grape · Red

Pinotage

Warm climate

About

A South African crossing of Pinot Noir and Cinsaut. Distinctive and polarising; oak-influenced styles show coffee and chocolate; unoaked versions show fresh red fruit.

Typical profile

Body

Full

Tannins

Integrated

Acidity

Bright

Sweetness

Dry

Aromas

What the grape gives up young, and what it grows into with time in bottle.

Young · fresh from the glass

strawberry raspberry cherry banana

Aged · develops with bottle time

coffee chocolate smoke wet earth

Explore aromas

Oak influence

Common

Aging

Most drink well at 2-6 years; serious examples such as Kanonkop age gracefully for 15 or more.

Growing regions

How the grape expresses across places, grouped by country. Chips call out how a region's style deviates from the grape's default.

South Africa

Coastal Region

South Africa's signature crossing of Pinot Noir and Cinsaut. Smoky, earthy, and bramble-fruited, with raspberry and plum over coffee, mocha, and a distinctive savoury edge.

Stellenbosch

The grape's finest address: Kanonkop and its neighbours make dense, cellar-worthy Pinotage that converts the sceptics.

Food pairings

Grilled boerewors with caramelized onions and tomato relishBraised lamb shanks with rosemary and red wine reductionDark chocolate tart with espresso creamCape Malay curry with beef and apricotsSmoked brisket with coffee-bourbon glazeGrilled portobello mushrooms stuffed with goat cheese and herbs

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Pinotage taste like?▼

Pinotage offers a distinctive flavor profile that varies significantly with winemaking style. Unoaked versions showcase fresh red fruits like strawberry, raspberry, and cherry with hints of banana, while oak-aged examples develop rich coffee and chocolate notes.

Where does Pinotage grow best?▼

Pinotage thrives in warm climates and is most famously cultivated in South Africa, where it was originally created. The grape performs best in regions with consistent warmth that allows it to develop its characteristic bold flavors.

What food pairs with Pinotage?▼

Pinotage pairs excellently with grilled meats, barbecue, and spicy dishes that complement its bold fruit and potential smoky, coffee notes. The wine's versatility also makes it suitable for rich stews and aged cheeses.

How does Pinotage age?▼

With age, Pinotage transforms from showing bright red fruit and banana notes to developing complex tertiary aromas of coffee, chocolate, smoke, and earthy characteristics. This evolution makes it quite distinctive among red wines.

Is Pinotage similar to other similar grapes?▼

Pinotage is quite unique, being a cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsaut, though it doesn't closely resemble either parent. Its distinctive character—particularly the coffee and chocolate notes when oak-aged—makes it one of the more polarizing and recognizable red wines.