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. — 3 days ago

Eric Urbani

9.0

We tasted nine Kosta Browne Pinots from 2005-2013, all from the Keefer Ranch vineyard. The 2007 was savory and sturdy, #6 of the group. — 4 years ago

Eric Urbani

9.1

A tasting of nine Rhys Chardonnays spanning 2007-2019. A pre-release peek at the 2019. — 4 years ago

Norman

9.5

Engagement dinner for my oldest son. Great night and a great wine. — 10 days ago

Alan Hense

9.2

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

Alex Skandalis

9.2

If you like this type of red this will be in your wheelhouse. — 4 years ago

Eric Urbani

9.5

A tasting of nine Poggio Antico Brunellos, spanning 1985 to 2007, including two Riservas and three Alteros. My #1, a real standout — 4 years ago

Somm David T

Independent Sommelier/Wine Educator

9.6

Rich, elegant, juicy fruits of; blackberries, dark cherries, black plum, raspberries, hues of purple & blue fruits, strawberries. Used leather, fresh tobacco, finely, crushed rocks, palate gripping volcanic minerals, some dry herbs, moist clay, soft, understated baking spices, amazing, perfect florals that are a mix of; dark, red, blue, violets & lavender. Perfect acidity, it is well knitted/balanced with excellent length and a beautiful, elegant finish that lasts 90-120 seconds.

Photos; Pritchard Hill pano from the estate, Realm & Nine Sun branding above their tank room, tasting table and concrete eggs. — 2 years ago

Gregg Siegal

9.0

Darker and richer in flavor than most merlots. Great finish. Nice acidic backbone, very nice. — 4 years ago

Paola Bailey

9.4

Loved it. Lush, bold flavors soft finish. — 4 years ago