A Bright Promise for Pinotage

Established cellars and aspiring youth alike have seen the promise of Pinotage, and the vision has inspired unparalleled growth.

Since its development and commercialisation in the 1950’s, Pinotage has grown from just over 660 000 vines in 1979, to nearly 21 million vines in South Africa, making it 3rd most planted after Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz.

A generation of young winemakers are driving the potential of Pinotage and the industry in general, with a focus on craftsmanship.

Pinotage deserves the spotlight

“Locally and internationally, a lot of people are asking for Pinotage,” explains Warren Ellis, Winemaker at Neil Ellis in the Stellenbosch Wine Valley. “One of the reasons is the diversity of styles these days. It’s truly unique, I’d say. A South African story. And I think with the quality our producers are rolling out these days certainly deserves a spot in the limelight.”

The Pinotage Association, sponsored by Absa, has been critical in not only elevating the skill and knowledge around Pinotage production, but also improving the general perception of the wine in the market. The annual Absa Top 10 Pinotage Awards ceremony is one such platform, recognising the best Pinotage and generating hype around these wines and the cultivar in general.

Inspiring a new generation

The dedication and determination is inspiring the youth to join the industry and carry on the legacy. “What I do see around me is the focus on doing something that is a passion, something that you want to do,” says Wiehan Venter, who is part of the Pinotage Practical Program to cultivate young talent. “Wine and the wine industry represents that for me. It is a world of passionate people.”

It is this commitment to excellence that will allow South African wine to navigate the challenges ahead. Let us then toast to those who led the way, those who drive the industry forward, and those who are still to come.