Fort Ross Vineyard Pinotage 2013 Front Label
Fort Ross Vineyard Pinotage 2013 Front Label

Winemaker Notes

While Pinotage shares many traits with Pinot Noir, there is an earthy brambleness that distinguishes this varietal. Captivating aromas of dark fruit, elderberry and cassis are interwoven with hints of mocha, sandalwood and just the slightest hint of gamey notes in the background. This full-bodied, nearly opaque, inky Pinotage has a concentrated depth of luscious bold flavors that envelop the palate with tiers of blackberry, dark plum and blackcurrant with allspice and sassafras all chiming in. The defined dark berried fruit is in complete harmony with the firm tannins, tight acidity and lengthy, composed finish. The textural complexities and intensity pair beautifully with exotic spices, Italian food, as well as smoked and grilled meats. This wine has been patiently cellared until optimal for release. It will continue to benefit from cellaring for years to come.

Professional Ratings

  • 91
    COMMENTARY: I freely admit that I struggle with Pinotage. Whether they come from South Africa or other places, they remain perplexing. The 2013 Fort Ross Pinotage is a delicious wine. TASTING NOTES: This wine shows freshness and a stern palate. Its attractive aromas and flavors of black fruits and licorice should pair it well with chicken in a wild mushroom mix. (Tasted: March 7, 2019, San Francisco, CA)
Fort Ross Vineyard

Fort Ross Vineyard

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South Africa’s signature grape, Pinotage is a distinctively earthy and rustic variety. In 1924 viticulturists crossed finicky Pinot Noir and productive, heat-tolerant Cinsault, and created a variety both darker and bolder than either of its parents! Today it is popular in South Africa both as a single varietal wine and in Cape blends. Somm Secret—The name “Pinotage” is a subtle portmanteau. The Pinot part is obvious, but the second half is a bit confusing. In the early 1900s, Cinsault was known in South Africa as “Hermitage”—hence Pinotage.

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Sonoma Coast

Sonoma County, California

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A vast appellation covering Sonoma County’s Pacific coastline, the Sonoma Coast AVA runs all the way from the Mendocino County border, south to the San Pablo Bay. The region can actually be divided into two sections—the actual coastal vineyards, marked by marine soils, cool temperatures and saline ocean breezes—and the warmer, drier vineyards further inland, which are still heavily influenced by the Pacific but not quite with same intensity.

Contained within the appellation are the much smaller Fort Ross-Seaview and Petaluma Gap AVAs.

The Sonoma Coast is highly regarded for elegant Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and, increasingly, cool-climate Syrah. The wines have high acidity, moderate alcohol, firm tannin, and balanced ripeness.

EPC38148_2013 Item# 507386