Johan van Zyl Pinotage 2024

Johan van Zyl Pinotage 2024 is a powerful and elegant South African red wine made from old bush vines grown in the high-altitude vineyards of Piekenierskloof. Crafted from 100% Pinotage, this wine combines concentrated red fruit, refined oak spice and structured tannins with excellent ageing potential.

Product Story

The grapes were crushed into a traditional wooden foudre and cold soaked for several days before fermentation began. During fermentation, the cap was punched down three times daily while gentle pump-overs introduced oxygen and enhanced extraction.

Malolactic fermentation took place alongside alcoholic fermentation, helping to soften the wine’s structure and integrate its flavours naturally.

After fermentation, the wine matured for 12 months in 300-litre French oak barrels, with 25% new oak and 75% older barrels. This careful maturation adds depth, complexity and subtle oak character without overpowering the fruit.

Tasting Notes

This Pinotage displays a deep, intense purple colour. The nose reveals expressive aromas of raspberries, cherries and ripe plums, layered with delicate notes of toast and spice from French oak maturation.

The palate is rich, full-bodied and beautifully balanced, with concentrated fruit, firm tannins and a long, structured finish. Its impressive balance and tannin profile provide outstanding ageing potential.

Style: Full-bodied, structured and elegant
Grape variety: 100% Pinotage
Alcohol: 14.4%
pH: 3.64
Total acidity: 5.5 g/l
Residual sugar: 2.5 g/l
Serving temperature: 16–18°C
Cellar life: 8–10 years

Food Pairing

Johan van Zyl Pinotage is the perfect companion for traditional South African braai dishes, roasted meats and hearty stews. It also pairs beautifully with slow-cooked beef, grilled lamb and rich barbecue flavours.

Origin: Piekenierskloof

The Piekenierskloof plateau lies approximately 160 km north of Cape Town at elevations ranging from 600 to 750 metres above sea level. The old, ungrafted bush vines grow in sandy loam soils and benefit from cool evening air that helps preserve freshness and balance.

The 2024 growing season brought both challenges and opportunities. After an unusually wet and cold winter, dry and windy summer conditions reduced yields but resulted in smaller berries with concentrated flavours — ideal for producing intensely expressive Pinotage.

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