Simonsig

Perhaps second to Merlot in the “unfairly maligned varieties” category, Pinotage is in fact capable of producing some quality wine, as is the case with this budget friendly bottling. The most common complaint I hear is about an iodine character, and while I’ve tasted some examples, there’s none of it present here — just bright black cherry fruit, bay leaf and gentle brown spice, with great acidity, moderate grip and a long, blooming finish where some earthy notes dance among the fruit, herb and spice. Duck confit fans — give this a whirl.

There's a floral aspect to the bouquet of this wine, expressed in waves of pressed iris and African violet. Those notes are grounded by a core of plush strawberry, red plum and cherry, all hit by a soft dusting of vanilla. The mouthfeel is smooth yet full in feel, with a texture like crushed velvet and enduring tannic grip through the extended finish.