Spioenkop 1900 Pinotage 2020

Whereas the 2019 vintage of the  Spioenkop 1900 Pinotage was matured in 55% new oak, winemaker Koen Roose opted to use only 20% new oak in the case of the 2020. As ever, grapes are from Bottelary in Stellenbosch and Roose was looking to make a bigger stylistic distinction between this and the Pinotage that he makes from Elgin own-fruit, a wine which typically gets a lot of new oak (see here). It also bears mentioning that the 2020 spent an unplanned further year in tank as Roose waited on bottles due to Covid-19 related transport disruptions.

The result is unadorned and pleasantly rustic. Earth and forest floor notes appear next to red cherry, herbs and musk on the nose while the palate is lean and very fresh with grippy, slightly bitter tannins (alc: 13%). It come across as a bit awkward but simultaneously not short of interest. Price: R290 a bottle.

 CE’s rating: 91/100.

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