WTN: Warwick Pinotage 2005

[Peter May]

Let me kick off May's South African focus with a note on South Africa's own variety:

• 2005 WarwickPinotage Old Bush Vines - South Africa, Coastal Region, Stellenbosch (2/5/2009)
  Opened immediatley before drinking and it seemed to have closed up compared with previous times. Not a wine to drink on its own, this demands meat. It is solid with black plum flavours and dry leather. But after half an hour it softens, there's sweet berrys and a smokiness developing. I think this is one of those Pinotages that will last for 30+ years dropping tannins and becoming sweeter. I can't wait that long, but next time I must open it earlier before drinking and decant. (88 pts.)

I called in to Warwick Estate on my first visit to the Cape and was welcomed by owner/winemaker Norma Ratcliffe to taste her range of wines. Warwick has been one of my favourites ever since.

[Bob Parsons Alberta]

Nice start Peter, did you know she was Edmonton-born?

[Peter May]

No; I knew she was Canadian by birth but not which part.