Orpheus and the Raven #7 Pinotage

The first alluring feature of a young Pinotage is its color. The glass a dark purple, animated by red and blue hues. The wine’s apparent energy comes to rest in a bright violet pansy rim, inviting a taste. The scent of crushed boysenberries adds a sweet, floral note, followed by the density of dark plum. Distinctive aromas of baked nectarine, black cherries, and dark chocolate contribute to its intensity, which continues with a velvety texture and subtle earthiness. A bright hint of fennel and mint adds brilliance to the broad fruit, cooling its opulence with a savory sheen. Though dry, a sophisticated balance of fruit sweetness and astonishing acidity that tames its wild youth makes for a delicious and mouth-filling experience. The thoughtful use of oak adds clove and pepper, enveloping the fruit with fine-grained tannins. The same bright fruit announces itself on the palate, while the wine’s structure is underpinned by subtle aromas of licorice, tobacco, and the structured pulp of young blueberries. Towards the end of the glass, the initial color depth now dances with brighter burgundy hues. However, the elegant persistence and length of the taste invite a second glass. The wine closes with its initial berry fruit and assertive texture.