Rijk’s Reserve Pinotage 2018

Rijk’s Reserve Pinotage 2018 is a testament to the mastery of crafting exceptional full-bodied red wines. As a 100% Pinotage, this wine is a stellar example of South Africa’s unique contribution to the wine world, embodying both the intensity and the subtlety that the varietal can offer.

Cultivar:

100% Pinotage
Characteristics:

Type: Full-bodied red wine, predominantly fruit-driven and perfect for culinary pairings.
Profile: Crafted to showcase the robustness of Pinotage with a refined elegance.
Tasting Notes:

Nose: The wine opens with a broad spectrum of ripe red fruit aromas, including cherries and red berries, progressing into a rich blackberry essence and hints of spicy elegance.
Palate: On the palate, it presents a rich and creamy texture, bursting with the multi-layered fruit flavors detected on the nose. The 2018 vintage brings a powerful yet balanced profile, with silky graphite tannins that enhance its structure.
Finish: The finish is long and persistent, showcasing the finesse and longevity of the wine.
Viticulture:

Soil: Grown in low-yielding, well-drained vertical shale/schist.
Yield: 6.4 tons/Ha.
Aspect: West-North-West & East, with 70% of the vines raised as bush vine and 30% trellised using the Vertical Shoot Positioning system.
Harvest: Grapes are handpicked during the night to ensure freshness and to preserve the natural flavors.
Cellar Practices:

Maceration: A 48-hour cold maceration period before fermentation aids in extracting optimal color and fruit flavors.
Fermentation: Manual punch-downs are performed three times per day to enhance the extraction process.
Aging: The wine undergoes malolactic fermentation in barrels and is aged for 22 months in a mix of 60% new and 40% second-fill French oak barrels. Only the finest 20 barrels are selected to blend for the final product.
Ageing Potential:

This wine is expected to age gracefully for up to 15 years, developing greater complexity and depth over time.
Serving Temperature:

Best served at 17°C to fully appreciate its depth and nuances.
Food Pairing:
Rijk’s Reserve Pinotage 2018 pairs splendidly with rich meat dishes such as braised lamb, beef stews, or grilled meats. It also complements hard cheeses and robust vegetarian dishes, making it a versatile choice for diverse culinary experiences.

Enjoy the Rijk’s Reserve Pinotage 2018 for its exceptional quality and the perfect balance of power and elegance, a true jewel in the crown of South African winemaking.