Rijk’s Touch Pinotage 2021

The Rijk’s Touch Pinotage 2021 is a standout expression of South Africa’s signature grape, Pinotage, showcasing the varietal’s capacity to produce deeply flavorful and complex wines. This medium-bodied red wine emphasizes fruit-driven qualities that highlight the unique characteristics of the grape and its adaptability to local terroir.

Cultivar:
100% Pinotage, offering a pure and focused reflection of this distinctive South African varietal known for its robust flavor profile and adaptability.

Characteristics:
This medium-bodied wine is driven by its fruit-forward nature, presenting a balance of intensity and elegance that makes it approachable yet memorable.

Tasting Notes:
The Rijk’s Touch Pinotage features an intense dark red color, indicative of its depth and richness. The nose is layered with aromas of black currant and mulberry, underscored by cherries and subtle fynbos nuances, reflecting the local flora and adding a unique dimension to its profile. These aromas extend onto the palate, where they evolve into a rich, velvety texture marked by complexity and a well-rounded tannic structure. The oak integration is gentle yet evident, providing a supportive backdrop without overwhelming the vibrant fruit flavors.

In the Vineyard:

Soil: Low yielding, well-drained vertical shale/schist, conducive to producing concentrated flavors and aromas in the fruit.
Yield: 6.4 tons/ha, ensuring a focus on quality over quantity.
Aspect: West-north-west, optimizing sun exposure for ideal ripening.
Harvest:
The grapes are harvested at night and by hand, a practice that preserves their intrinsic flavors and aromas by keeping the fruit cool and minimizing oxidation.

Cellar Practices:
The winemaking process includes a 48-hour cold maceration to enhance color and fruit extraction before fermentation. During fermentation, the juice is pumped over the skins three times per day to maximize flavor and color extraction. Gentle pressing of the skins before completing fermentation ensures the wine’s smooth texture. Malolactic fermentation (MLF) and maturation are carried out in French oak barrels (20% 2nd fill, 40% 3rd fill, and 40% 4th fill), which contribute to the wine’s complexity and mouthfeel without dominating its profile. The wine is matured for 20 months in these barrels, allowing it to develop a refined character.

Ageing Potential:
This wine is built to age gracefully, with potential for development over eight years post-vintage. This aging will allow the tannins to soften further and the flavors to integrate more fully.

Serving Temperature:
Best served at 14°C to enhance its aromatics and flavor profile.

Overall, the Rijk’s Touch Pinotage 2021 is a beautifully crafted wine that reflects the best aspects of the Pinotage grape. Its blend of intense fruit, complex aromatics, and refined tannins make it an excellent choice for pairing with rich meat dishes like roast lamb, game, or beef stews, offering a versatile option for various culinary experiences. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for future tasting, this wine represents the high-quality winemaking that Rijk’s is known for.