ntroduction
The 2021 Southern Right Pinotage is a refined expression of South Africa’s signature red grape, crafted with elegance and restraint in the cool-climate Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. Southern Right, a sister winery of the renowned Hamilton Russell Vineyards, is dedicated to producing high-quality Pinotage that emphasizes balance, structure, and terroir. This wine combines ripe fruit, earthy complexity, and fresh acidity, showcasing Pinotage in a more elegant, old-world style that appeals to both traditionalists and modern palates.

Terrior
The Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, situated near the coast in South Africa’s Western Cape, benefits from a cool maritime climate with ocean breezes that moderate temperatures. This cool-climate terroir is ideal for Pinotage, allowing for slow ripening that preserves acidity and enhances aromatic complexity. The valley's clay-rich and stony soils impart minerality and finesse to the wine, bringing out a side of Pinotage that is fresh, balanced, and expressive of place rather than pure ripeness.

Appearance
Deep ruby with garnet hues, displaying medium-high viscosity that hints at concentration while maintaining elegance.

Nose
The nose is complex and inviting, with primary aromas of blackberry, dark cherry, and plum, interwoven with subtle notes of black pepper, roasted coffee, and earthy minerality. Hints of smoke, leather, and wild herbs add depth and reflect the wine’s restrained oak influence.

Palate
On the palate, the Southern Right Pinotage is medium-bodied with a smooth, polished texture. Flavors of dark fruit—blackberry, plum, and ripe raspberry—are layered with savory notes of earthy herbs, smoke, and a hint of cocoa. The wine’s vibrant acidity provides freshness and balance, complementing the gentle tannins. The oak influence is well-integrated, adding a touch of spice and enhancing the wine’s complexity without overwhelming the fruit or earthy character.

Finish
The finish is long and well-structured, with lingering notes of dark berry, subtle spice, and a hint of earthy minerality. The balanced acidity and refined tannins leave a clean, satisfying aftertaste, highlighting the wine’s freshness and potential for further aging.

Overall Impression
The 2021 Southern Right Pinotage is an elegant, well-balanced wine that showcases a sophisticated side of Pinotage, highlighting the grape’s potential for complexity and finesse. Its combination of dark fruit, earthy nuances, and fresh acidity make it an excellent choice for those seeking a more refined, cool-climate Pinotage. This wine pairs beautifully with grilled lamb, roasted vegetables, or mushroom-based dishes, and will continue to evolve gracefully over the next 5-7 years.

Published Rankings
James Suckling Rating: 92
Robert Parker Rating: 91

Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 13.5%
Farming Practices: Sustainable
Producer Name: Southern Right
Old World / New World: New World
Country of Origin: South Africa
Region: Western Cape, Hemel-en-Aarde Valley
Grape Varietals: Pinotage
Vintage: 2021
Wine Style: Red, Medium-Bodied
Winemaking Techniques: Hand-harvested, fermented in stainless steel with native yeasts, aged in French oak barrels (a mix of new and used) for about 10 months
Pack Size: 750ml
Container Style: Glass bottle
Closure Style: Cork