1925
Pinotage is created in Stellenbosch.
Professor Abraham Izak Perold crossed Pinot Noir with Cinsaut, then commonly called Hermitage in South Africa. The name Pinotage combines Pinot with the ending of Hermitage.
History
How Pinotage became South Africa's signature red.
From a 1925 crossing to modern producer revival, Pinotage has had a short but unusually eventful history.
Timeline
A century of Pinotage.
The grape's story is tied to university research, preserved vine material, early commercial plantings, bottled releases, producer advocacy, and renewed attention during the 2025 centenary.
Late 1920s
The young vines survive and move forward.
After Perold left Stellenbosch University, the experimental material was preserved and later propagated, allowing the new variety to move from a small crossing into vineyard trials.
1940s-1950s
Experimental plantings become commercial potential.
Pinotage moved from experimental material into South African vineyards. Producers including Bellevue and Kanonkop became part of the grape's early commercial story.
1959-1961
Bottled Pinotage reaches consumers.
Lanzerac is widely associated with the first bottled Pinotage, with the 1959 vintage later released under the Lanzerac name in the early 1960s.
1995-1997
Pinotage gains formal advocacy.
The Pinotage Association was formed in 1995, followed by the inaugural Pinotage Top 10 Competition in 1997, giving the variety a dedicated platform for quality recognition.
2025
Pinotage marks its centenary.
The grape's 100-year milestone prompted renewed attention, producer stories, awards coverage, and events focused on South Africa's signature red variety.
Learn More
Explore the Pinotage guide.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions.
Short answers for visitors learning about Pinotage and how this referral guide works.
What is Pinotage wine?
Pinotage is a red wine grape created in South Africa in 1925 by crossing Pinot Noir with Cinsaut, then commonly called Hermitage locally.
What does Pinotage taste like?
Pinotage often shows dark fruit such as plum, black cherry, and blackberry, with possible smoky, earthy, spicy, coffee, cocoa, or oak-driven notes depending on style.
Is Pinotage always smoky?
No. Some Pinotage wines show smoky or roasted notes from oak, winemaking, or savory grape character, while others are fresher, fruit-led, and less smoky.
Does Pinotage.com sell wine?
No. Pinotage.com is a referral and education guide. Bottle cards and winery references link to producer or source websites where visitors can check current availability.