2021 Kanonkop Pinotage

Tried a new type of wine for me this week, a 2021 Kanonkop Pinotage. I had never heard of Pinotage before a few months ago but just happened across it in a panel review I was listening to. Pinotage is specific to South Africa and was created there by hybridizing Pinot Noir and Cinsault varieties. Pinotage apparently has suffered a bad reputation because if the grape is not grown and harvested correctly it can produce off-smelling and tasting phenolics that while natural are not nice. So, if you decide to try this wine I'd suggest sticking with a company who has experience growing it. Kanonkop is pretty much the premier producer (but still affordable) for this variety which is why I tried this one.

On the nose this wine was dark cherries/red fruit, light potpourri, sweet spice, a touch of sauvage, and had a lively/juicy quality. On the palate it was medium+ body, juicy acidity, dark red/black fruit, cedar, spice, and a some floral qualities. Overall, this was very interesting and definitely work the buy. My husband thought it was nice and would be a really good food wine. I liked it even more and thought it kept making me want to take another sip. I picked up a couple more bottles and I'm excited to share this new-to-me variety with others!