Roodekrantz 1976 Old Bush Vine Pinotage 2022

The Roodekrantz 1976 Old Bush Vine Pinotage 2022 is a wine with a story that stretches back long before its vintage. The grapes come from old, resilient vines planted in 1976 in the heart of Stellenbosch, deeply rooted in weathered granite soils. These “bush vines,” low to the ground and steadfast over decades, produce only small quantities of fruit, but what they do yield is remarkable in intensity and character — a gift that only time can bestow.

In the glass, the wine shows a deep ruby red with hints of purple, vibrant yet profound. The nose is captivating: ripe cherries, plums, and blackberries mingle with subtle notes of clove, cedarwood, and a touch of earthiness. There’s a nostalgic quality to the aroma, as if it carries an echo of the vineyard itself — sun, wind, and patience distilled into scent.

On the palate, it is full and juicy, yet tempered with a gentle softness. The tannins are velvety and perfectly integrated, supporting the fruit effortlessly. The texture is silky, while the fresh acidity keeps the wine beautifully balanced. As it opens, layers of tobacco, cocoa, and soft spices emerge, adding intrigue and depth.

The 2022 release reflects a delicate balance between modern precision and reverence for tradition. Roodekrantz deliberately employs minimal intervention, allowing the expression of the old vines to shine through. Nothing about this wine feels forced; it speaks with quiet confidence, carried by the wisdom of nearly fifty years of vine life.

What makes the Roodekrantz 1976 Old Bush Vine Pinotage truly remarkable is its sense of authenticity. It does not feel like a product, but like a story in liquid form — a tale of perseverance, of sun and soil, and of people who understand the value of time. It is a wine that evokes memories, even on the very first sip.