Born from innovation and nurtured by generations of pioneering vintners, Pinotage stands as a symbol of South African excellence. As we honour its remarkable journey, we also look ahead – to a future of boundless potential, bold experimentation, and global acclaim.
To mark this historic occasion, a series of exceptional events will unite wine lovers, industry leaders, and cultural enthusiasts in a grand celebration of Pinotage’s past, present, and future. The festivities commenced at the Stellenbosch Institute for Advanced Study (STIAS), a fitting venue deeply connected to the pioneering spirit of Pinotage.
A legacy of innovation: Aliquid Novi
The STIAS vineyard, known as a dorpswingerd (town vineyard), embodies Stellenbosch’s rich winemaking heritage and honours the legacy of Mostertsdrift, one of the region's earliest wine farms. In tribute to the visionary work of Abraham Izak Perold – the professor of viniculture who first bred Pinotage by crossing Pinot Noir with Hermitage (Cinsault) – STIAS chose Pinotage as its signature cultivar, symbolising the institute's commitment to innovation.
Planted on 2 October 2006 by representatives of STIAS, the Perold family, the Pinotage Association, the University, and vine sponsors, the vineyard yielded its first vintage in 2013. This exclusive wine, named Aliquid Novi (Latin for "something new"), draws inspiration from the Roman philosopher Pliny the Elder’s phrase ex Africa semper aliquid novi ("Something new always comes out of Africa").
Produced in limited quantities and crafted at Lanzerac – a winery deeply rooted in Pinotage history – Aliquid Novi offers a lighter, fruit-driven expression of the variety, celebrated for its vibrancy and depth. It is primarily distributed to the sponsors of the 966 vines in the Perold Vineyard, with select allocations available at Lanzerac Wine Estate.
Pinotage 100: A celebration of legacy and the future
The flagship event celebrating the Pinotage centenary is set for 9-12 October 2025 at Meerendal Wine Estate. This immersive gathering will bring together visionary winemakers, connoisseurs, and thought leaders for an unforgettable experience.
“We invite the industry to take part in this uniquely South African celebration and push the boundaries of Pinotage, we not only planning the Pinotage 100 but many other experiences which include masterclass tastings and thought leadership, lifestyle and culture events, exclusive collaborations. We invite every Pinotage produce, industry, supplier, distributor, and marketer – locally and international – to help drive the centenary campaign,” says Beyers Truter, chairman of the Pinotage Association.
Proud partners and sponsors
The success of this landmark celebration is made possible by generous industry partners and we encourage those who want to be involved to contact us. Below are a few names that have already voluntarily raised their hand to be a part of this journey with us:
- Toneleria Nacional: Sponsoring an overseas experience for the winners of the 2025 Pinotage Cape Blend competition.
- Sullward: Partnering on label design and production for awards and centenary festivities.
- Absa Bank: Naming rights sponsor for all awards and competitions.
- John Deere Financial: Supporting the Grand Pinotage initiative.
- Meerendal Wine Estate: Official venue sponsor for the flagship event.
- STIAS: Venue sponsor and innovation partner.
- Jak de Priester Produksies: Music and productions.
- SA Experiences - Chiefs Tented Camps - Kruger Untamed: Lifestyle events and bespoke experiences.
The Pinotage Association invites more industry partners to join this historic initiative. Visit pinotage.co.za to find out about various opportunities.
A vision for the next 100 years
The Pinotage Centenary is more than a commemoration; it is a launchpad for the future. With ongoing refinement, experimentation, and global expansion, Pinotage is poised to secure its place among the world’s most celebrated varietals. From the historic vineyards of Stellenbosch to emerging terroirs worldwide, Pinotage will continue evolving, offering depth, complexity, and character that rival the finest wines.
Be part of history
The full event programme is available upon request from the Pinotage Association.
To mark this milestone, the official Pinotage 100 branding and visual identity are freely available at pinotage.co.za. Wineries, restaurants, and wine lovers worldwide are encouraged to incorporate this centenary branding and share in the celebration.
Raise your glass to the future
As we honour 100 years of Pinotage, we celebrate its past, embrace its present, and ignite its future. This is more than a centenary; it is a defining moment in the Pinotage story. A chance to reimagine, rediscover, and revel in the bold spirit of South Africa’s signature variety.
Join us in making history. Save the dates, spread the word, and prepare to experience Pinotage as never before.
For more information, visit pinotage.co.za or contact the Pinotage Association at brand@pinotage.co.za.
Here’s to a century of Pinotage – and to many remarkable vintages ahead!