221 Pinotage 2024 Worcester WO - Alvi's Drift

221 Pinotage 2024 – Alvi's Drift

Alvi's Drift is a family estate in the Breede River Valley, in Worcester, about two hours from Cape Town. Founded in 1928 by Albertus Viljoen van der Merwe, it is now run by the third generation, with Alvi van der Merwe as winemaker and his brother Johan, across about 410 hectares of vineyards. "221" is the Signature Range, made for easy drinking.

Pinotage, South Africa's own grape, a cross of Pinot Noir and Cinsault, comes from hand-picked fruit gathered in the cool early hours of the morning. The wine spends a short time in oak, partly American and partly French, which rounds out the profile without masking the fruit.

The 2024 is a dry, medium-bodied red: cherry, raspberry and red currant with floral notes, soft and juicy on the palate. Serve at 12-14 °C. With cured meats, aged cheeses and sushi.

At a glance: Pinotage 100% · 13.5% ABV · 0.75 l · Alvi's Drift, Worcester (Western Cape, South Africa)