# Perdeberg Pinotage (2023)

- **Producer:** Perdeberg Cellar
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Pinotage
- **Region:** Western Cape, South Africa
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.4%
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 15–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** ripe fruit, dark cherry, dark plum, blackberry, vanilla

## About this wine

The Perdeberg Pinotage 2023 is a red wine from the Western Cape, South Africa, produced by Perdeberg Cellar. The grapes are sourced from the Paarl and Swartland regions, grown under dryland conditions on decomposed granite and sandstone soils. The 2023 vintage benefited from a cool growing season and timely rainfall, leading to an earlier harvest. Perdeberg Cellar, founded in 1941, emphasizes passion, innovation, and respect for the land in its winemaking. This wine is part of a collection designed for enjoyment with food and company.

## Interesting facts

- Pinotage is South Africa's signature grape, a cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsault.
- Dryland farming means the vines rely solely on natural rainfall.
- Natural fermentation uses the yeasts present on the grape skins.
- This wine is vegan-friendly.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium body and ripe dark fruit notes complement the richness of grilled meats and hearty stews. Its subtle tannins can stand up to protein, while the fruitiness can balance the spice in dishes like Cape Malay or Portuguese cuisine. Tomato-based dishes find a natural partner in the wine's fruit profile.

## Wine making process

The Perdeberg Pinotage 2023 is produced using grapes from the Paarl and Swartland regions. The winemaking process begins with de-stemming and a two-day cold maceration to enhance flavor and color extraction. Fermentation is natural, utilizing indigenous yeasts in stainless steel tanks with regular pump-overs. Following fermentation, the wine undergoes malolactic fermentation and is aged for eight months on American and French oak staves. The wine has a 13.37% alcohol by volume.