# Rijk's Private Cellar Pinotage (2002)

- **Producer:** Rijk's Wine Estate
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** 100% Pinotage
- **Region:** Western Cape, South Africa
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.8%
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Passed
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** red cherry, red berry, vanilla

## About this wine

Rijk's Private Cellar Pinotage 2002 is a red wine from the Tulbagh region of South Africa's Coastal Region, produced by Rijk's Wine Estate. The estate was founded in 1996 by the Dorrington family on land known for its shale soils. Winemaker Pierre Wahl joined the estate in 2002, the year this vintage was produced. The 2002 growing season in South Africa presented challenges, including cool spring weather and a subsequent heatwave, making the quality of this wine a testament to the producer's skill. The 'Private Cellar' designation signifies a specific range of wines from the estate.

## Interesting facts

- Winemaker Pierre Wahl joined Rijk's in the 2002 vintage year.
- The grapes were harvested at night to preserve freshness.
- A cold soak was used for 48 hours before fermentation.
- The wine spent 16 months aging in French and American oak.

## Food pairing

The full body and rounded tannins of this Pinotage make it an excellent companion for rich, protein-heavy dishes. The wine's structure can stand up to robust flavors, while its spicy notes complement grilled or roasted meats. The oak influence also pairs well with savory, umami-rich preparations.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for this Rijk's Private Cellar Pinotage began with a 48-hour cold soak to enhance color and flavor extraction. Fermentation was followed by malolactic fermentation, which took place in barrels. The wine then underwent an extended aging period of 16 months in a mix of French and American oak barrels, with a substantial proportion being new. This aging process was designed to integrate the oak influence and build structure. The wine was bottled in August 2003.