Hamilton Russell Vineyards Southern Right Pinotage

Pinotage has a difficult reputation – too often rustic, too often over-extracted. The Southern Right Pinotage from Hamilton Russell Vineyards shows what the grape variety is capable of when grown in the right place.

The winery is located in Walker Bay, about 120 kilometers east of Cape Town – one of the coolest wine regions in South Africa. Sea breezes from the Atlantic and Indian Oceans ensure long growing seasons and slow ripening. Hamilton Russell, founded in 1975 by Tim Hamilton Russell, has consistently harnessed this coastal influence: first for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, then – under the Southern Right label – also for Pinotage and Sauvignon Blanc.

In the glass, it displays a deep ruby ​​red color. The nose offers ripe plum, blackberry, and a hint of mocha, underpinned by subtle oak spice. On the palate, juicy fruit, medium tannins with little harshness, lively acidity – and a long finish with a light smokiness, typical of the grape variety but well integrated here.

Serving temperature: 16–18 °C. Drinking window: now until approx. 2028.
Pairs well with: braised lamb shoulder, grilled beef steak, spicy lentil stews or mature cheddar.