Freddy R. Troya

9.2

Spier – 21 Gables Pinotage / 2020
Stellenbosch – South Africa 🇿🇦

Overview
A benchmark Pinotage from one of South Africa’s oldest wine estates, Spier (est. 1692). This single-varietal Pinotage highlights both Stellenbosch terroir and the estate’s commitment to sustainability and vegan-friendly practices.

Aromas & Flavors
A concentrated nose of ripe blackberry, plum, and mulberry intertwined with smoky mocha, sweet spice, and a touch of earthiness. On the palate, dark fruit depth melds seamlessly with cocoa and subtle oak.

Mouthfeel
Full-bodied yet polished, with smooth, integrated tannins and a long, velvety finish. Rich and powerful, but retaining freshness that keeps it balanced.

Food Pairings
Grilled lamb chops with rosemary, smoky barbecue ribs, roasted root vegetables, or aged Gouda. A natural partner for bold and savory dishes.

Verdict
An exceptional Pinotage that balances tradition with finesse. It showcases why Stellenbosch is considered the spiritual home of the grape, and why Spier remains a leader in South African fine wine.

Did You Know?
Pinotage is South Africa’s signature grape, created in 1925 by crossing Pinot Noir with Cinsault (then known locally as Hermitage). Spier’s “21 Gables” line honors the Cape Dutch heritage architecture of the estate.

🍷 Personal Pick Highlight
A jewel of Stellenbosch. This vintage shows remarkable balance and depth, one of those rare Pinotages that leaves a lasting impression and deserves a spot in any serious collection. — 25 days ago

Matthew Doty

8.9

A very nice change of pace from my usual CS. Would certainly buy again — 3 years ago

Steve Hayes

9.3

Quite nice, well balanced acid and body and great value around $10 — 4 years ago

Michelle Connely

9.0

For me, subtle tannins, balanced acidity and flavors of blackcurtant, dark chocolate and cedar spice. Consumed 11/16/25 w steak. — a day ago

Ken F

9.4

Had 7/21/23 at amore ristorante a nice crisp wine with hints of oak. — 2 years ago

Crystal Anne

9.8

I LOVE this white. Drank the entire bottle in 1 sitting. Flavored mostly with pear but carries a strong hint of minerality on the nose… bright/crisp and light touches of guava and honey. — 3 years ago

Megan Benade

9.0

A bit sweeter than an average pinotage, but pleasant — 10 months ago

Jenna Whitrock

9.3

Pretty good, more of a petrol smell but better taste — 2 years ago

Alan Hense

9.2

Full bodied with classic notes of lanolin wet wool, ripe peaches, lemon and vanilla. — 3 years ago

Fatima Jacobo

8.9

Dark purple, lots of tannin. Pinot Noir and Hermitage blend. Ripe red cherry. Available at total wine — 4 years ago