I had had one or two Riebeek Cellars wines here and there at a dinner party and very much enjoyed them. This time we've only had the chance to open up one bottle and that was the 2013 Pinotage. We had it with a friend the day after Thanksgiving, while eating - you guessed it - leftover Thanksgiving dinner.
It was very fruity - especially the next day, with a big hint of berry on it. And it was quite enjoyable. The best part for us however, was the discussion centering around what really was a Pinotage? As the bottle was slowly emptied our theories became a bit silly. Though the most popular vote was a blend of Pinot Noir and Meritage grapes, we were rather surprised by the actual answer.
Turns out the Pinotage grape is a variety native to South Africa, and results from a blend of the Pinot Noir grape (not that surprising) with the Hermitage (or Cinsaut) grape. The Cinsaut grape started in France and slowly worked its way into the French Colonies in Africa and down to South Africa. Which makes sense. The wine itself had some blend-like qualities, somewhat similar to a Bordeaux but I thought had a bolder flavor. It also got a lot jammier the longer it was left open - and was almost purple in its color.
Who would have thought? So yes it was a very good wine, and I think retails for just over $10.00. Very worthwhile. At any rate, I will let folks know how the other Riebeek Cellars bottles were once we try them. Also stay tuned for an article on our lovely local Wine Store sometime soon.
ps- thanks to the http://www.pinotage.co.za/index.php/about-pinotage for the helpful information!
