tallywineguy @drvino I think pinotage is more divisive than CF. Writing in Friday’s Globe and Mail of Toronto, Beppi Crosariol, the paper’s wine columnist, weighs in on the topic of Cabernet Franc. He’s not a fan of the grape. You can find many of these same people downloading unsigned artists to their iPods.&#. MORE >>

Red wine varietals that tend to benefit from a good bit of oak include: Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinotage, Chianti, Zinfandel, Nebbiolo, Tempranillo and Syrah. Oak is utilized somewhat like a “seasoning” to add flavor and palate appeal to a wine. Which Wines are Typically Oaked? Why Oak Wine? Where is the barrel from? MORE >>

Africa and daughter of Warwick founder Stan Radcliffe, is the force behind the famous Bordeaux blend, Trilogy, popularized Cabernet Franc, and was instrumental in launchng the Pinotage society so it is natural that these wines are consistent award winners (though there are other award winning red blends, and Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc as well). MORE >>

Later, I attended the Masterclass called "Chenin & Pinotage—stars of past, present and future". Johan de Villiers, Senior Winemaker for Stellenbosch winery Spier, took us through mini verticals of top selection Chenin Blanc and Pinotage from their super premium Private Collection range. Masterclasses. More Excitement. Until 2012! MORE >>

Have gradations for Pinotage akin to Rioja (crianza, reserva, gran reserva) to indicate at a glance the degree of seriousness of the wine. Ken Forrester likes Chenin Blanc. Just don’t call it Steen. In his opinion, the best Chenin needs cool and sunshine, which may sound like a paradox. g/l, and 12 g/l residual sugar.). Prohibit corks. MORE >>