The full-bodied 2011 Rhinofields Pinotage is one of the elite few to be named a trophy winner in this year’s Absa Top 10 Competition which aims to increase the awareness and winemaking excellence of Pinotage.

It’s no wonder it stood out from the 132 Pinotages entered. With its concentrated black currant aroma on the nose, layers of cassis, ripe cherry and a hint of lavender, the wine is rich and fills the mouth with sweet wood spice backed by silky tannins.

According to the delighted cellar master, Martin Moore, the 2011 vintage was ideal for producing award-winning Pinotages in the Durbanville area. “The unique set of rolling hills, cool breezes and soil components of this area played a major role, along with the exceptional weather we had at the time, in producing this wine which has been part of our reserve range since its 2009 vintage The northwest-facing vineyard from where the grapes were harvested, is now ten years old and producing exceptional fruit. We have also experimented in the cellar with amongst other, different density French oak grains, and will continue to perfect this recipe.”

This expertly structured wine is best served with Cajun-style chicken, roast haunch of venison with redcurrant jelly, Spanish chorizo or Bratwurst, Irish stew, and Camembert and Parmesan cheese.

The 2011 Rhinofields Pinotage retails for about R119 and is available from fine liquor outlets and at the cellar.