South African Pinotage that’s easy to love, the Lievland Bushvine Pinotage.
88% Pinotage, 9% Cinsault and 3% Shiraz from Paarl, Western Cape, South Africa. The wine spends 12 months in a combination of French and American oak and is vegan friendly.
Sample submitted for review. The Lievland Bushvine Pinotage has an SRP of $19 and is available for as low as $17. Only 950 cases produced. Produced by MAN Vintners and imported by Vineyard Brands.
Lievland directly translated means “Love Land.” Ever since owners Jose and Tyrrel set foot on this farm, they were in love with the land for more than its bucolic charm. Twenty years ago, these soils were considered amongst the Cape’s top vineyards and it remains our ultimate goal to resurrect its ultimate potential.
The story behind the label is of “Bokkie,” South Afrtica’s national animal who was adopted by two horses on the farm, becoming inseparable. This unique love story inspired our label, Cupid riding a Springbok. This wine was made from unirrigated bush vines from the Paarl region producing small, concentrated berries. A bright, modern wine with gentle oak maturation and fine acidity true to the expression of our unique local variety.
13.5% Alcohol
Created as a cross between Pinot Noir and Hermitage (Cinsault) in South Africa in 1925, Pinotage can be a bit polarizing. Some consider it the signature grape of South Africa. Others feel it is more of an “acquired taste” and best used in blends. Today’s bottle definitely fits into the first category.
The 2017 Lievland Bushvine Pinotage opens with a very pleasant aroma of black cherry, lots of vanilla and mint and a little spice. Taking a sip reveals lots of savory and juicy dark fruit, plenty of spice and great depth of flavor in this really tasty wine. There’s quite a bit going on and it all fits together very well. Touches of vanilla and mint carry over from the nose. There are also some dried herbal notes, a bit of earthiness and good acidity. It ends with a long, dry, grippy finish. This is one dreamy Pinotage!
See a listing of local retailers selling the Lievland Bushvine Pinotage here.
Looking for more of our favorite wines from South Africa? Check out our multi-page listing of all our favorites here or check out our growing list of vegan selections!
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