Petit Pinotage

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21 April 2026

This wine came to me by accident, it should have been Petit Cabernet Sauvignon, but here is the review anyway. It is from Ken Forrester Wines, right in the heart of Stellenbosch and this is the 2023 vintage. It comes in at a punchy 14%, yet still has an easy-drinking style, which explains the “Petit” in the name. In this case, “Petit” points to a lighter, fresher take on Pinotage, and that is also why it is unoaked.

I would give this one 30 minutes to air before drinking. In the glass, it has a deep ruby-purple colour. On the aromas, there is plum, a touch of hoisin and umami and some sweet spice. On the taste, it brings dark fruit with a spicy edge. There is a very pleasing mouthfeel, with low to medium tannins and a medium body.

It is less intense and less smoky than other Pinotage, a more delicate and elegant version. That said, I personally tend to enjoy Pinotage for its more full-on character.

It is £12.00 on a Mix Six deal from Majestic.

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