Franschhoek Cellar Stone Bridge Pinotage – A Pinotage For The People

100% Pinotage from South Africa.

SRP of $12 and available at that price. Sample received courtesy DGB for review purposes.

From the bottle:

“The town of Franschhoek was founded by French Huguenots in 1688. At Franschhoek Cellar we honour our heritage and wine culture by dedicating each of our wines to one of our town’s historical landmarks.

Our Stone Bridge Pinotage, has a vibrant ruby colour with mulberry and plum aromas, and hints of chocolate spice on the nose. It is well integrated with a firm structure and a soft fruity finish. Enjoy with venison, your preferred grilled cut of meat or your favourite comfort food.

14.0% Alcohol”

The Pinotage grape was created in South Africa as a cross between Pinot Noir and Hermitage (Cinsault) in 1925. Since then it has become, for some, the signature grape of South Africa. Unfortunately it has had an up and down history. Today it is used quite a bit in blends but it seems to also be having a bit of a renaissance in single varietal bottlings. It has a (probably undeserved) reputation as being a bit of an acquired taste. Based on what I tasted in today’s wine, if this is an acquired taste then it’s one that every wine drinker should acquire ASAP.

The 2009 Franschhoek Cellar Stone Bridge Pinotage begins with a wonderful aromatic nose of mulberry, spice and plum along with some smokiness and a bit of leather. The wine tastes smooth and luscious with lots of fruit. It’s definitely different than what you’re used to drinking but in a good way. Strawberry and other red fruit counters the gamy, smoky character and dried herbs. Nice leathery tannins come through on the dry and fruity finish and the succulent flavors last a long time. An excellent and unique wine that is really easy to drink. There are LOTS of savory flavors in this wine and it’s just as good if not better on day 2.

See a listing of local retailers selling this wine here.

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