Redhill Pinotage Simonsig 2019, Stellenbosch

Redhill Pinotage Simonsig 2019, Stellenbosch

Pinotage is a unique grape that emerged from a cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsault (known as Hermitage in South Africa) by Professor Perold in 1924-25 in Stellenbosch. This grape is now one of the most iconic in South Africa. To create this exclusive Pinotage, the finest wines are selected and matured in a significant proportion of new oak barrels. The grapes come exclusively from the famous Redhills slopes of the Simonsig Estate, where the soil consists of decomposed shellfish deposits mixed with granite, making it ideal for red wine production.

20% of the grapes are fermented with whole bunches, while the rest are gently destemmed and crushed. After pressing, both wines undergo malolactic fermentation in tanks. At Simonsig, it is believed that the delicate raspberry notes characteristic of Pinotage should not be dominated by too much wood. However, Redhill Pinotage is so powerful and structured that it can withstand barrel aging and even become more harmonious from it. Therefore, it matures for 15 months in new French oak barrels (225 l. from the Allier forest).

The wine is very full-bodied with complex flavors of wild berries, bitter chocolate, mocha, English liquorice, dark spices and cedar. The aftertaste is extremely harmonious with both depth and elegance. It can be easily aged for another 6-8 years, which will increase its complexity and charm. It is ideal with dishes such as lamb, game, grilled beef or mature red cheeses.