Piekenierskloof Wines - "Johan van Zyl" Pinotage

Grape Varieties:

100% Pinotage (ungrafted!)

About the wine:

The Piekenierskloof plateau is situated 160 km north of Cape Town and 50 km from the Atlantic ocean as the crow flies. At 600 to 750 metres altitude these old, ungrafted bush vines, growing in sandy loam soils, are rejuvenated by cold air in the evenings during the growing season.

Conditions:

The distinct ravine which embodies Stellenbosch Kloof harnesses all the qualities of a well-orientated compass. Varying elevations and aspects allows us to grow a selection of classic varieties to specific sites that optimise this expression through their location.

The cooler south–facing aspect, hosts the more sensitive and aromatic white-skinned grape varieties.

Winemaking Method & Maturation:

Grapes were crushed into a wooden foudre. It was then cold soaked for a few days before alcoholic fermentation started. During fermentation the grapes were punched down 3 times per day and one pumpover for oxygen were given. Malolactic fermentation took place during alcoholic fermentation. After fermentation the wine is racked to 300 litre french oak barrels, 25% new and 75% older oak for maturation of 12 months.

Wine Tasting notes:

On colour

The Johan van Zyl Old Vine Pinotage 2024 shows an intense, vibrant dark red hue.

On the nose

The nose is rich and layered, with ripe dark berries and cassis at the core, lifted by red-fruit notes. These are framed by savoury touches of dark chocolate, tobacco and a hint of baked spice, reflecting the variety’s depth and the old-vine concentration.

On the palate

On the palate the wine is full-bodied and textured, with a definite richness and velvety mouthfeel. Firm but fine tannins give structure, while bright acidity keeps the dark fruit, chocolate and subtle earthy notes fresh through a long, satisfying finish.

On the whole

A serious, old-vine Pinotage: deep, structured and savoury, with dark fruit, chocolate and tobacco complexity carried on a rich, velvety palate.