Napoli Vineyard’s, of Mendocino County, pinotage grapes right before the 2007 harvestPinotage is a native grape of South Africa. Typically, it produces a deep ruby red varietal with berry, spice and smokey flavors. The best bottles of Pinotage are often priced substantially lower than comparable Cabernet Sauvignons, Merlots, and Syrahs so it’s usually a good value for the price. Because of the smokey flavors, it is often paired with barbeque.
McNab Ridge, this month’s Featured Pinotage, was the first winery in Mendocino County to produce this varietal. McNab Ridge, located in McNab Valley of Hopland, California, purchases their grapes from their adjacent neighbor, Napoli Lehnert. Shown left are Napoli Vineyard’s pinotage grapes right before the 2007 harvest. Shown above is Denise happily welcoming a customer to the McNab Ridge tasting room.