Grand Vin de Stellenbosch Pinotage 2022 (Top 10)

Produced by Le Grand Domaine in Devon Valley, Stellenbosch, Grand Vin de Stellenbosch Pinotage 2022 reflects a more refined and site-driven approach to South Africa’s signature variety. The vineyards benefit from elevated slopes, cooling ocean influence and decomposed granite soils that help preserve freshness while allowing the fruit to ripen evenly.

The estate focuses on careful vineyard management and gentle winemaking to bring balance and clarity to the wine. Mature vines produce smaller berries with concentrated flavour, while open-top fermentation and measured oak maturation help build texture without masking the character of the Pinotage fruit. The result is a wine that leans more towards elegance and savoury complexity than overt sweetness or extraction.

Colour:
Deep ruby red with a youthful purple rim.

Nose:
Expressive aromas of black cherry, mulberry and ripe plum are layered with hints of cedar, baking spice, roasted coffee bean and subtle earthy notes.

Palate:
Medium- to full-bodied, with concentrated dark berry fruit balanced by fresh acidity and fine-grained tannins. Notes of cocoa, clove and gentle oak spice add depth through the mid-palate, while the wine maintains a composed, savoury edge throughout.

Finish:
Long and smooth, with lingering dark fruit, spice and a subtle smoky note.