5 Things to Know About Pinotage Pinotage is South Africa’s signature grape—bold, complex, and totally its own thing. First, it’s a cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsault, created in the 1920s. Second, it’s known for ripe, dark fruit, smoke, and sometimes earthy or even rubbery notes. Third, it’s highly expressive and can be rustic or refined, depending on how it’s made. Fourth, modern producers are dialing in balance—bringing out freshness, spice, and drinkability. Fifth, Pinotage isn’t here to p