Lanzerac Wine Estate, situated in the Stellenbosch Winelands, has received a 5-star rating for its Pionier Pinotage 2015 in the latest edition of the authoritative and internationally recognized Platter’s by Diners Club South African Wine Guide 2018, due for release mid-November. The results were announced on 3 November at an event held in Cape Town.

The Lanzerac Pionier Pinotage 2014, which earlier this year was awarded the prestigious Absa Top 10 Pinotage trophy, received a 4 1/2 –star rating. The 2015 vintage was a finalist for the Absa Top 10 Pinotage trophy. The Mrs English 2016 and Cabernet Sauvignon 2015 also each received a 4 ½-star rating in the guide.

This latest accolade reaffirms Lanzerac’s position as Pinotage pioneers in the South African wine industry.

Platter publisher, JP Rossouw (left) with Lanzerac Cellar Master, Wynand Lategan

What makes this accolade so significant is that the Pionier Pinotage pays homage to the first world’s first bottled Pinotage – a 1959 Lanzerac Pinotage. Cellar Master, Wynand Lategan, describes the wine as showcasing dense, concentrated fruit with a multitude of layered flavours. Expect to find aromas of Christmas spices such as nutmeg, cloves and cinnamon, which are surrounded by fruity aromas of plums, prunes, berries and currants. The well-integrated oak and soft, silky tannins add backbone and length. A robust wine with a velvety palate results in a perfectly well-rounded wine with a long and lingering aftertaste. This is the perfect wine to serve with a succulent Springbok fillet, served with a red wine and cranberry jus.

Available directly from the Tasting Room or via the website, www.lanzerac.co.za,  at R800 per bottle, this is without a doubt a collector’s dream.