Radford Dale Vinum Pinotage 2018

Radford Dale wines are “uncommonly natural”, as their Head of Viticulture and Winemaking likes to say. Radford Dale prides itself on their approach of minimal intervention winemaking, meaning they do everything in their power to make sure the vineyard is part of the local ecosystem (this means minimal pesticides- they prefer boosting beneficial microorganisms instead; nicely deterring local wildlife from sampling the grapes by using nature-friendly methods like spreading dog hair a local groomer to keep birds and bucks away; and composting to remove the need for conventional fertilizer). They also use extreme care when handling their precious grapes. By harvesting by hand at sunrise, using the minimal sulphites by capping with screwcaps and keeping the skins intact during maturation, Radford Dale ensures the highest quality wines with the least amount of human intervention. 

Pinotage is the quinessential South African grape variety. It was created in 1925 by Abraham Izak Perold, the first professor of viticulture at Stellenbosch University by crossing Cinsault (known locally as Hermitage) and Pinot Noir to give the portmanteau "Pinotage".  

Radford Dale believes Pinotage is a gentle soul which benefits from a light touch and careful handling, like its Pinot parentage. This maiden vintage of Radford Dale Vinum Pinotage expresses the real nature of what this grape has to offer – refreshing, juicy black fruits with poise and elegance and ripe tannins.

We recommend pairing with grilled, or braised meats, like slow-cooked sausages, beef, and lamb.