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. — a month ago

Kelley Raymond

8.9

A bit dry and lacking in the usual layers of flavor. Thinner than others — 2 months ago

Thomas Epps

9.2

Very good…Slightly too much oak? — 3 months ago

with Jeannie

Vasanth Balakrishnan

9.0

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. — 7 days ago

Cole Wahouske

9.1

Fruit-forward, but well structured. Lots of different and aromas and flavors to speak of, the different varieties mesh well…very eclectic but a little eager. — a month ago

Mary Ellen Bonisteel

9.5

Great wine!! — 2 months ago

K L

9.3

Very very good. One of the favorites — 4 months ago

with Matt

Doug Powers

9.0

Spivey, brambley, red fruits, definitely ripe (15.2% ABV), but nicely balanced and with a long, lingering finish, very enjoyable Contra Costa County field blend!! — a month ago

with Jim

William Brouwer

9.0

Full body. Nice nose. Smooth. Enjoying a glass at the Olde Brick House in Rochester, MN. — 2 months ago

Alex Miller

9.3

✧⚝ Smooth easy drink, mild, makes my tummy warm ✧⚝ — 2 months ago