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. — 2 months ago
✧⚝ Smooth easy drink, mild, makes my tummy warm ✧⚝ — 3 months ago
14 year old #mataro aged at a famous steakhouse. Substantial acidity up front, blackberry pie, warming spices and just an undertone of fig fruit from the time in bottle. Tannins must have been fierce upon release but now they are firm and well-integrated. Delicious. — a month ago
Full body. Nice nose. Smooth. Enjoying a glass at the Olde Brick House in Rochester, MN. — 3 months ago
Great wine!! — 3 months ago
Black berry spices Fruitiness M+ Sweetness M+ Acidity M Tannin M Smooth This is one of the directions in Ridge Zinfandel. Ridge Three Valleys 23 @1600, P9 - Ambassador, 251126 — 23 days ago
A bit dry and lacking in the usual layers of flavor. Thinner than others — 3 months ago
Scott@Mister A’s-San Diego
2020 vintage. Last tasted 2.7.24 (9.2). Same 10 months later. 12.03.25. — 16 days ago