Pinotage is a red grape variety developed in South Africa as cross between Pinot Noir and Hermitage (Cinsaut) by Abraham Izak Perold in 1924/25. It has become the flagship wine of South Africa in the early 21st century.
Although only a 'minor' grape variety, it is predominantly grown in South Africa, with the rest of the worlds plantings being predominantly in other African countries and the United States.
Pinotage, primarily known for its dark, ripe fruit flavours like blackberry, cherry, and fig, has a bold, sweet jammy flavour with a smoky, earthy finish. Pinotage is a high-sugar, high-ABV, full-bodied grape with medium-high tannins.