As Pinotage Month draws to a close, it's essential to recognise not only the significance of this variety but also the promising future it holds for South Africa's wine landscape. With the centenary of Pinotage approaching next year, there’s much to celebrate. The insights of subject matter experts like De Wet Viljoen, cellarmaster at Wildekrans Wine Estate and vice chairman of the South African Pinotage Association, can guide us in embracing this journey.
A journey of transformation
Pinotage has come a long way in its almost 100 years. The standard of wines produced is now exceptional, earning accolades from both local and international wine lovers. This remarkable progress is attributable to the dedication of the Pinotage Association and its partners, alongside the invaluable support from Absa, which champions this variety.
The recognition of Pinotage as a symbol of South African innovation is not merely a point of pride; it reflects our commitment to quality and excellence in winemaking.
The Wildekrans approach: Harnessing terroir
What sets Wildekrans Wine Estate apart in its approach to Pinotage is an unwavering focus on our unique terroir. Our soils are distinct, and the climate varies significantly from other regions, allowing us to craft wines with a more elegant profile.
We produce Pinotage with firm, fine tannins that require time to mature, ultimately leading to wines that age gracefully.
The combination of shale and alluvial soils, along with diverse planting methods, both trellised and bush vines enables us to select only the finest fruit for our blends.
The terroir’s role in distinctive characteristics
The terroir of Wildekrans is instrumental in shaping the distinctive characteristics of our Pinotage. The predominant soil types – shale, decomposed granite, and rich alluvial soils – contribute to the complexity and depth of flavour in our wines. Covering nearly 1 000 hectares, our estate offers a range of soil profiles that enhance the unique expressions of wines we produce.
Winemaking techniques: Crafting flavour
Key winemaking techniques play a pivotal role in enhancing the flavour profile of Pinotage. The grape’s naturally thick skin facilitates easy extraction of flavour and colour during fermentation.
At Wildekrans, we implement a meticulous pump-over regime, starting with four hours of extraction and tapering off as fermentation progresses. By finishing fermentation in barrel and allowing for malolactic fermentation, we achieve better integration and complexity, producing wines of exceptional character.
The evolving landscape of Pinotage
Looking ahead, the future of Pinotage appears promising, particularly in terms of consumer perception and market demand. The brand of Pinotage is strong in South Africa, with recognition as the country’s only true commercial grape variety.
When we conduct tastings, the pride South Africans take in Pinotage is palpable. Recent efforts to improve quality and elevate Pinotage’s status have created a beneficial ripple effect throughout the industry.
Addressing misconceptions
Despite its successes, misconceptions about Pinotage persist. Many still believe it is a blend, when in fact, it is a distinct variety, born from the crossing of Pinot Noir and Cinsault.
Furthermore, some think that Pinotage can only be made in a few styles. In reality, there are numerous expressions of this grape, and I encourage winemakers to stay true to its varietal character. While the “coffee” style wines have their followers, I advocate for a balance between fruit and wood, allowing Pinotage to shine in its elegance.
Future innovations at Wildekrans
At Wildekrans, we are committed to evolving our practices. Plans to plant new vineyards with different Pinotage clones will provide us with a broader palette for future blends. Furthermore, I am eager to experiment with various oak origins and toasting levels, pushing the boundaries of what Pinotage can be.
Tradition meets innovation
The balance between tradition and modern techniques is vital in winemaking. Understanding the science behind the craft is crucial, but so is the willingness to innovate. Each day presents an opportunity to refine our methods, blending the best of both worlds to achieve excellence.
Advice for aspiring winemakers
To new winemakers aspiring to work with Pinotage, my message is simple: Don’t hesitate to seek advice from your experienced peers. Wine is a journey of experimentation – taste widely, embrace curiosity, and remain open to new ideas. Avoid the trap of preconceived notions; let the grape guide you.
As we close out Pinotage Month, let us not only celebrate its past but also embrace the future of this extraordinary variety. Pinotage is a testament to South Africa’s unique wine heritage, and together, we can ensure it continues to thrive on the global stage.