Pinotage

South Africa's homegrown cross — polarizing but distinctive.

Pinotage was bred in 1925 by South African scientist Abraham Perold by crossing Pinot Noir with Cinsault (then locally called Hermitage, hence the name). The grape is South Africa's calling card and a polarizing wine — at its worst it shows burnt-rubber and acetone notes from improper fermentation; at its best (Kanonkop, Beyerskloof, Spioenkop) it produces structured, fruity reds with banana, plum, and savory smoked-meat character. Cool-site, careful winemaking has shifted the modern style toward fresher, more elegant expressions.