🍷 Celebrate International Pinotage Day – October 11th
October 11th is International Pinotage Day, celebrated on the second Saturday of October each year. This day honours a uniquely South African wine variety that has captured the hearts (and palates) of wine lovers around the world.
The story begins in 1925, when Abraham Izak Perold, the first professor of viticulture at the University of Stellenbosch, combined Pinot Noir and Hermitage (Cinsaut) grapes to create a completely new variety: Pinotage. Although the grape was created in the ’20s, the term “Pinotage” didn’t appear on a wine label until 1961.
Pinotage began gaining real international attention in 1991, when Kanonkop’s Pinotage won the Robert Mondavi Trophy for the Best Red Wine at the International Wine and Spirits Competition in London. Since then, it has stood proudly as South Africa’s signature red wine.
Pinotage: South Africa’s Signature Wine for the Perfect Braai
When it comes to finding the perfect wine to complement the charred smokiness of a summer BBQ, look no further than Pinotage—or as it’s called in South Africa, the ultimate Braai companion.
With its bold flavours and rich depth, Pinotage is the perfect match for grilled lamb, smoky veggies, juicy burgers, or even a creamy plate of vegetarian dhal. It’s more than just a wine—it’s a taste of South African heritage.
A Wine Made for South Africa
Created by Abraham Perold in 1925 at Stellenbosch University, Pinotage is a genetic cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsault (Hermitage). This gives it the elegance of Pinot Noir and the resilience of Cinsault, producing small, thick-skinned grapes that create a deep, inky wine.
Expect flavours of blackberry, plum, black currant, and figs, along with adventurous hints of smoke, rooibos, tobacco, bacon, and grilled meats—making it the ideal partner for smoky, flame-kissed dishes.
Aging Like Fine Art
While delicious young, Pinotage truly shines with a bit of age, as its flavours soften and deepen over time. For collectors and connoisseurs, it’s a wine worth cellaring.
Pairing Pinotage with Your Next Braai
From a succulent rack of lamb to perfectly seared burgers or charred vegetables, Pinotage elevates every bite. If you’re in the mood to experiment, pair it with a spiced, creamy vegetarian dhal—the wine’s depth beautifully balances the richness of the dish.
What to Drink Pinotage With?
With the current trend in wine-and-chocolate pairing, Pinotage shines alongside a rich chocolate soufflé or bittersweet dark chocolate with a soft, sweet centre.
It also pairs beautifully with:
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Curries of all kinds
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Roast chicken or roast duck
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Lamb chops
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Smoky BBQ fare
Is Pinotage Healthy?
In moderation, Pinotage offers notable health benefits thanks to its high levels of antioxidants and polyphenols. These compounds are believed to reduce inflammation, support heart health, and help lower the risk of certain diseases.
When to Drink Pinotage?
Its bold flavour and higher tannin content make Pinotage ideal for cooler months like autumn and winter. In warmer weather, opt for lighter Pinotage styles with lower tannins to enjoy the complexity without overwhelming the palate.
What Cheese Pairs with Pinotage?
Pinotage’s rich, savoury notes are a natural match for:
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Semi-hard cheeses like Cheddar, Gouda, Emmental, Boerenkaas, Provolone, Edam, and Gruyère
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Bloomy cheeses like Camembert
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Smoked cheeses for a flavour-packed pairing
Experience the Magic of Pinotage
Every year, International Pinotage Day is a chance to celebrate a wine that embodies South Africa’s culture, history, and passion. So next time you light up the Braai, make sure there’s a bottle of Pinotage nearby—because some flavours are simply meant to be enjoyed together. 🍷🔥