Description

Tinta Barocca, originally introduced to the Cape in the late 1920s, is a resilient and high-quality red grape variety of Portuguese origin. It occupies a modest 221 hectares across the Cape region, representing a mere 0.2% of South Africa’s total vineyard area.

The grapes are carefully hand-harvested during the cool morning hours and then subjected to fermentation in temperature-controlled open-top cement fermenters known as “kuipe” in Afrikaans or “lagars” in Portugal. This method involves manual punch downs, delicately coaxing out the optimum flavor and color extraction from the grape skins while preserving the wine’s bold aromatic profile. Subsequently, the wine undergoes a 10-month maturation process in old French oak barrels before bottling, with a light filtration applied.

Tasting Notes:

This aromatic, medium-bodied wine showcases a harmonious blend of ripe plum, mulberries, luscious raspberry jam, lively spice notes, and the characteristic hint of cocoa powder typical of Tinta. All these flavors are elegantly wrapped in soft tannins.

Serving Suggestions:

This wine makes an excellent aperitif and pairs wonderfully with rustic country cuisine, including grilled red meats, venison dishes, hearty casseroles, or even a classic Sunday roast chicken. For a more exotic twist, it complements grilled peri-peri chicken, beef Espetada, or casual al fresco dining with close friends and a selection of fine cheeses.