6 x 750ml bottles of Survivor Reserve Pinotage - a trio of pairs from the past, present and future

Since the year 2000, Pinotage has held a grip on me, and neither of us can seem to let go. Initially, my Pinotages all came from bush vine Stellenbosch vineyards, then from Tulbagh and Swartland origins. Today, they all hail from the Swartland, albeit from different soil types, irrigation methods, and trellis systems. This sought-after collection comprises three vintages, in which I have been involved in the blending and bottling of the 2020 and 2021, and in the making, overseeing the ageing process, and bottling of the 2022 vintage.

Both the 2020 and 2021 received 5 stars in the Platter Guide, with the latter being awarded ABSA Top 10 finalist. Hopefully, the 2022 vintage will follow suit. These wines originate from low-yielding, 25-year-old bush vineyards, grown on decomposed granite soils, and are 100% dryland farmed.

The grapes were fermented in open-top stainless-steel tanks, with pigeage used for extraction. The wines underwent malolactic fermentation and were then matured in 300-litre French oak barrels for 20 months before being racked, fined, and bottled.

These are wines for collectors, enthusiasts, and consumers who appreciate the art of winemaking. They pair excellently with Karoo lamb and venison dishes. They have the power to convert any non-believer into a lover of this truly South African cultivar, Pinotage!