In 2025, South Africa celebrates a major milestone: 100 years of Pinotage, the nation’s proudly homegrown grape. Born from innovation in 1925 by Professor Abraham Izak Perold, who crossed Pinot Noir with Hermitage (Cinsault), Pinotage has become a symbol of South African excellence and a favourite of wine lovers worldwide.
Aliquid Novi: Honouring Innovation
The Stellenbosch Institute for Advanced Study (STIAS) pays tribute to this legacy through its vineyard at Mostertsdrift, where Pinotage was planted in 2006. Their wine, Aliquid Novi (“something new”), reflects both heritage and innovation, crafted at the historic Lanzerac Wine Estate and offered in limited quantities to vine sponsors and select buyers. It captures the pioneering spirit of Stellenbosch, while showcasing the vibrancy and complexity Pinotage has come to represent.
Although the first seeds of Pinotage were planted in the 1920s, the varietal’s breakthrough came only decades later. Early plantings faced many challenges, and it wasn’t until the 1950s that the potential of Pinotage was fully realised, particularly through trailblazing estates like Kanonkop and Lanzerac. These early champions helped establish the distinctive style that would eventually become synonymous with South African winemaking.
To mark Pinotage’s centenary, a series of landmark celebrations will unfold, starting with the flagship event at Meerendal Wine Estate from 9–12 October 2025. Visionary winemakers, thought leaders, and enthusiasts will gather for masterclasses, cultural experiences, vineyard tours, and exclusive tastings. Beyers Truter, legendary winemaker and chairman of the Pinotage Association, who has dedicated much of his career to championing Pinotage on the global stage, invites all industry players to join this historic celebration and shape the next chapter of Pinotage’s journey.
This centenary is a moment to honour the bold spirit of South African wine and to inspire the next generation of Pinotage pioneers who will carry the legacy forward with passion and innovation.
Looking ahead, the centenary is seen not only as a celebration of the past, but a launchpad for future discovery. With global expansion and continued refinement, Pinotage is set to rival the world’s finest wines for generations to come.
Raise your glass to 100 years of Pinotage—South Africa’s gift to the world—and to an even brighter future.
