Pinotage hasn’t always been the popular South African wine it is now. In fact, a century ago, it was merely an experiment to blend Pinot Noir and Cinsault together. But since then, this wildcard is now one of South Africa’s most iconic grapes, poured proudly around the world.
For Upper Union’s senior sommelier, Tongai Charie, red wine has always been more than something you pour at dinner: “Red wine holds a special place in my heart: it’s bold, full of character, and always deeply connected to where it comes from,” he says.
To celebrate 100 years of Pinotage, Tongai shares his top picks of some of the seriously exciting South African wines out there — bottles that show just how far this homegrown varietal has come.
- Beeslaar Pinotage
If you want to understand Pinotage at its best, start here. For Tongai, it’s the purest expression of what Pinotage can be: bold, elegant, masterfully balanced, and consistently exceptional in quality. Crafted by Abrie Beeslaar, this wine proves why Pinotage deserves a seat at the global fine wine table.
- Southern Right Pinotage
Southern Right offers a savoury take on Pinotage; it is earthy, and modern. Tongai loves it because it is a beautifully structured wine with earthy complexity and bright fruit and offers a refined and modern take on the varietal.
- Lanzerac Pionier Pinotage
Lanzerac made the world’s first Pinotage back in the ‘60s, and the Pionier range still honours that legacy today. It’s smooth, expressive, and full of dark berries and spice, and a classic for Tongai. A historic name with a rich legacy, the Pionier is polished and expressive, with layers of dark fruit and a velvety finish.
It’s a big year for Pinotage. One hundred years in, and the South African grape is finally getting the recognition it deserves. And for Tongai, it’s not just about what’s in the glass, but about where it comes from, and where it’s going next.
