Rijk’s, Pinotage Touch 2022

Rijk’s Wine Estate, nestled in the Tulbagh Valley of South Africa, has built a reputation for crafting exceptional Pinotage wines that showcase the unique terroir of the region. The Touch Pinotage 2022 is an approachable yet refined expression of South Africa’s signature grape, highlighting vibrant fruit, balanced structure, and a silky texture.

The 2022 vintage experienced moderate growing conditions, allowing for even ripening and optimal flavour development. The grapes were hand-harvested at night to preserve freshness, followed by a 48-hour cold soak to enhance colour and tannin extraction. Fermentation was carefully controlled with regular punch-downs to ensure gentle extraction. After fermentation, the wine was matured in a combination of older French oak barrels and stainless steel tanks to retain its bright fruit character while adding depth and complexity.

Appearance: Deep ruby-red with a bright, youthful sheen. The core is rich and concentrated, while the rim exhibits a slight purple hue, reflecting the wine’s vibrancy and youth. Swirling in the glass reveals a smooth, glossy texture, with fine, slow-moving legs that hint at a well-balanced structure.

Aroma: Bursting with lively aromas of ripe red cherries, mulberries, and juicy plums. Hints of violet and rose petals add an elegant floral lift, while subtle notes of sweet spice, vanilla, and a touch of cocoa from gentle oak maturation enhance the complexity. As the wine opens, a delicate earthiness and a whisper of roasted coffee emerge, rounding out the bouquet beautifully.

Taste: Medium-bodied with a smooth, fruit-driven palate. Juicy red berries, black cherries, and fresh raspberries dominate, layered with hints of dark chocolate and cinnamon. The tannins are soft and well-integrated, lending a velvety mouthfeel, while a balanced acidity keeps the wine fresh and vibrant. A touch of toasted oak and mild tobacco add depth without overpowering the bright fruit.

Finish: Long and silky, with lingering notes of juicy plum, gentle spice, and a hint of dark cocoa. The tannins leave a soft, polished impression, making for an elegant and easy-drinking yet structured Pinotage. A final whisper of black tea and crushed herbs adds complexity to the aftertaste, ensuring a graceful finish.

Food Pairing: The Touch Pinotage 2022 pairs wonderfully with grilled lamb chops, barbecued pork ribs, or a rich mushroom risotto. It also complements traditional South African dishes like bobotie or braised oxtail, where its bright fruit and balanced acidity cut through the richness of the dish. Aged cheeses such as Gouda or mild blue cheese enhance the wine’s silky texture and layered flavours.

The Rijk’s Touch Pinotage 2022 is an expressive and well-crafted Pinotage, offering a delightful balance of bright fruit, smooth tannins, and subtle oak influence, making it an excellent choice for both casual enjoyment and special occasions.