"The Bernard Series" Bush Vine Pinotage 2018

It is called The Bernard Series Bush Vine Pinotage and is a fine South African red from the Bellingham winery. The appellation, Wine of Origin Coastal Region, Stellenbosch, is one of the most popular in South Africa. Here, in fact, a magical combination of climate, soils and traditions allow producers to grow high quality grapes, perfect for making fine wines. Bellingham's historic vineyards, with vines up to 43 years old, are capable of producing high quality wines. Bush-trained, the vines grow in granite soils with low yields. Specifically, the best bunches of Pinotage are carefully selected, first in the vineyard and then in the cellar. The must is fermented in open French oak barrels, with daily punching-down. Then, after malolactic fermentation, also in barriques, 50% of the wine is matured in French oak barrels, half new and half second-passage. This maturation phase lasts for about 18 months. In the glass, this Bush Vine Pinotage has a beautiful intense ruby colour with violet hues. On the nose, notes of black cherry, ripe mulberry and raspberry. In the mouth, fruit aromas combine with notes of plum compote, smoked meat and tasty hints of truffle. The finish is long and persistent, well integrated with the wood and spicy notes. Good already, this Pinotage will evolve for at least 10 years. When we uncork it, we can pair it well with meat dishes with a strong flavour. Excellent with game, duck, lamb and, of course, beef.