Developed in 1925 as a hybrid of Pinot Noir and Cinsault (a.k.a. Hermitage), Pinotage has been South Africa’s signature-varietal since the first commercial release in 1961. Although vinified in a very modern style, this example is indeed true to the classic character of spice, herb and both dark and tropical fruit. The enticing, supple texture is complimented by firm oak and lingering finish.

Composition
100% Pinotage

Harvesting
Predominantly dry-land bush vines at 500 meters above sea level on a variety of slopes and soil types of the Piekenierskloof Mountains and harvested the end of February/ early March.

Cellar Treatment
Following 24 hours of skin contact to obtain the desired color and flavor, fermentation is started with selected yeasts strains under controlled conditions at 29 °C. The wine underwent malo on American oak chips and was matured for six months on American oak staves.

Color
Intense red.

Aroma
Typical aromas of ripe strawberries and plums. Well-balanced with soft oak and vanilla.

Analysis
Residual Sugar - 3.5 g/l Alcohol - 14% Total Acidity - 5.63 g/l pH - 3.49

Pairings
Richly flavored dishes, BBQs, spicy curry, vegetarian stew, casseroles and richly-flavored cheeses.

Citrusdal Cellars plays a large role in the wine industry in South Africa’s Western Cape region. The Cellar is a cooperative made up of 78 local farming members. Under Fair Trade guidelines, farmers are guaranteed a minimum price for their grapes which is used to pay workers fair and consistent wages.

An additional Fair Trade premium is paid to the Fairtrade Labeling Organization (FLO) certified farms, which is given directly to the workers. The workers vote on how to spend the additional income collectively in an effort to improve their living conditions. In the past, workers have used the money to build common rooms, improve housing and create education funds.

Over the last 30 years, Citrusdal Cellars has been committed to improving the quality of life of the local communities involved in the production of their wines. The Cellar supports the local, worker-run Community Development Association that creates programs and courses for Citrusdal Cellars’ workers as well as members of disadvantaged communities in the region.

Together with Etica and one other European Fair Trade organization, Citrusdal Cellars makes financial contributions to the CDA by means of donations based on wine sales. These funds are used for development initiatives, as well as community based projects. Leadership programs, management courses, personal growth and cultural development are but a few of the initiatives of this local association of volunteers.

Programs include:

• Identifying and training community leaders to initiate and facilitate future community programs
• Life-skills courses for adult men and women
• First Aid training
• Training community health workers
• Junior leadership courses for entry level supervisors
• Business seminars for experienced supervisors
• Developing a choir festival for competing choirs of local businesses and farm choirs
• Social sport teams and competitions
• HIV/AIDS education
• Creating women support networks
• Funding seven child care facilities