Pinotage is South Africa’s signature grape — a cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsault that, in the right hands, produces wines of real depth and originality. Mooiplaas in Stellenbosch is very much the right hands. Deep ruby-purple in the glass, the nose is bold and inviting — ripe blackberry, dark plum, and a hint of mocha, with a characteristic smoky, earthy undertone and a touch of warm spice that is unmistakably Pinotage. On the palate it’s full-bodied and generous, with velvety tannins, a rich, fruit-driven mid-palate, and a long, satisfying finish with a lingering note of dark chocolate and coffee. A wine that proudly flies the flag for South African viticulture.