Pinotage
Known as South Africa's signature wine, it was developed by Abraham Izak Perold a professor of viticulture at Stellenbosch University, who was attempting to cross the robust Censault with the excellent wine making, but hard to grow Pinot Noir.
The first recognition of Pinotage came at the Cape Wine Show of 1959 when a Bellevue wine made from the varietal won first prize. This wine would go on to become the first wine to mention Pinotage on its label in 1961.
In South Africa it is made into a full range of styles, from easy-drinking quaffing wine and rosé to barrel-aged wine intended for cellaring. It is also made into a fortified "port" style and even a red sparkling wine.
"Cape Blend" wines are required to contain a 30% to 70% of pinotage in their make up.
As a result of its original conception the wine has suffered considerable snobbery over the years but it continues to grow in popularity and quality.
Normally contains smokey bramble and earthy flavours, sometimes with notes of bananas and tropical fruit.
Tip: Goes well with varying dishes; try with fresh game or a winter soup, but it can equally be paired nicely with venison or even ribs in barbecue sauce