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Ken Forrester
Varietal: Pinotage
In South Africa, the most widely grown red wine grape varietal is undoubtedly the Pinotage, a wonderfully versatile grape which has become something of a flagship varietal for the South African wine industry. It is also grown in several other parts of the world, but to a lesser extent. It is a viticultural cross, brought about be interbreeding Pinot Noir and Cinsaut grapes, and capturing the finer points of both species. Pinotage grapes can be used to make a range of different wines, from fortified and sparkling red wines, to the more commonplace still wines which are enjoyed all over the world. Commonly, Pinotage grapes hold smoky flavors, with dark berry notes and a plummy character, although they also often contain tropical fruit flavors and a range of earthy tones. Pinotage produces dark red grapes, and their strong color is often used for blending purposes.
Region: Coastal Region
The coastal region of South Africa is a wonderful place for viticulture. With gorgeously long, hot summer days, tempered by brisk oceanic winds, the grapevines can grow healthily, the fruit can ripen fully, and beautiful wines of great character and flavor can be made. For several hundred years now, the coastal region of South Africa has proven itself to be a highly important wine region, capable of supporting many grape varietals, suitable for still, fortified and sparkling wines. Today, the most popular grapes by far are Chenin Blanc, which produces the most recognizable wines of South Africa. However, also popular are many of the Bordeaux varieties of red and white grape, along with relative newcomers, such as Pinotage, which grow exceptionally well in the coastal terroir.
Country: South Africa
Perhaps the most famous and well respected of all the wine regions in South Africa is that of Constantia, which holds many of the oldest and most traditional wineries in the country. Here, the temperate climate receives the Atlantic winds which cool the vineyards, and the fertile soil allows the grapes to grow to full ripeness, resulting in highly flavorful wines which are enjoyed around the world. Whilst Sauvignon Blanc varietals make up the most widely exported wines of this region, the rest of the country produces a huge and impressive range of wines, made up from varietals native to many different European countries. From excellent Champagne style sparkling wines, to aromatic fortified examples, fruity reds and refreshing whites, South Africa continues to impress and surprise, with modern techniques and technologies leading the way and producing exceptional results.