Description
What type of wine it is
The Bellingham Homestead Pinotage is a South African red wine that precisely expresses the character of the Pinotage grape variety. It is distinguished by an aromatic bouquet dominated by plum, mulberry and a delicate hint of vanilla. On the palate, it is dry and structured, enriched by notes of raspberry, strawberry and black cherry that intertwine with hints of liquorice and sweet spices. The soft and silky tannins accompany the sip towards a persistent finish, making this wine, awarded 91 points by Robert Parker, ideal for pairing with grilled meats, game and mature cheeses.
Where it comes from
This wine originates from South Africa, in the Stellenbosch region, from vineyards located in cool areas over two hundred metres above sea level. The proximity to the False Bay coast ensures constant refreshing sea breezes from the Atlantic Ocean, which mitigate temperatures and encourage a balanced ripening of the clusters. The weathered granite soils, known for their excellent water retention capacity, provide the plants with essential support during the driest periods, giving the wine vibrancy and an identity strongly linked to the territory.
How it is produced
The grapes come from historic bush vines, ideal for producing small berries with high aromatic concentration. After manual harvesting, fermentation takes place in cement and steel tanks, with frequent but delicate punching down and pump-overs for a balanced extraction. Soft pressing is followed by ageing in French oak barrels for twelve months. This resting period perfects the integration between the wood and the spices, resulting in a clean flavour profile and remarkable structural finesse.
History and curious facts
Founded in 1693, the Bellingham winery expresses its centuries-old soul in this Pinotage from the Homestead Series, masterfully combining authentic South African tradition with a modern approach. The wine is produced from historic bush vines located in the Stellenbosch region and celebrates the estate's deep historical continuity, faithfully enhancing the unmistakable identity of the terroir. This link with history has been awarded 91 Robert Parker points.
Tasting notes
Perfume
Color
Taste
Serve at:
16 - 18 °C
Longevity:
10 - 15 years
Decanting time:
1 hour
- Start up year: 1693
The Podlashuks replanted the farm to vineyards and travelled to France and Germany to do extensive wine research. Upon return, they buckled down and released the Cape’s first rosé in 1949, followed in quick succession by the Premier Grand Cru in 1951 and the first single varietal Shiraz in 1956.
The 80s and 90s saw vineyard developments, cellar extensions and the beginning of Bellingham’s classic New World winemaking philosophy. Today, while still inspired by its history of innovation, ingenuity and foresight, the brand is firmly set in the 21st century, producing contemporary, structured wines with an unmistakable sense of place and style. Read more
| Name | Bellingham Homestead Pinotage 2022 |
|---|---|
| Type | Red still |
| Denomination | N/A |
| Vintage | 2022 |
| Size | 0,75 l |
| Alcohol content | 13.5% by volume |
| Grape varieties | 100% Pinotage |
| Country | South Africa |
| Region | South Africa |
| Vendor | Bellingham |
| Story | History and curious facts Founded in 1693, the Bellingham winery expresses its centuries-old soul in this Pinotage from the Homestead Series, masterfully combining authentic South African tradition with a modern approach. The wine is produced from historic bush vines located in the Stellenbosch region and celebrates the estate's deep historical continuity, faithfully enhancing the unmistakable identity of the terroir. This link with history has been awarded 91 Robert Parker points. |
| Origin | Stellenbosch Coastal Region, South Africa |
| Soil composition | Weathered granite that retains water |
| Cultivation system | Small tree |
| Harvest | February |
| Production technique | Hand-harvested grapes from bush vines; frequent but gentle pump-overs and punch-downs; fermentation in stainless steel and concrete tanks; gentle pressing; ageing for 12 months in used French oak barriques. |
| Wine making | Grapes from bush vines hand-harvested in February and carefully processed upon arrival; delicate but frequent pump-overs and punch-downs; fermentation in stainless steel and concrete vats; light pressing after fermentation; ageing for 12 months in used French oak barriques. |
| Aging | Aged for 12 months in used French oak barriques |
| Total acidity | 5.6 gr/L |
| PH | 3.5 |
| Residual sugar | 3.5 gr/L |
| Allergens | Contains sulphites |

