Beaumont, Bot River, Pinotage, Western Cape, 2013

Sebastian Beaumont and family have been farming and making wine in the Bot River since 1974, focusing on cooler-climate expressions of Chenin Blanc, Syrah, Mourvedre and Pinotage. This example of the Cape's own grape is very elegant, with enough complexity and balance to satisfy any Pinotage sceptic. Ripe plum and red berry fruits lead, followed by a lick of vanilla and fine tannins from the oak, while the refreshing acidity counters the firm structure.