The Perfect Pairing: Pinotage & the Bottelary Hills Terroir
Nestled in the renowned wine region of Stellenbosch, the Bottelary Hills provide an exceptional terroir that is ideal for cultivating South Africa’s signature grape, Pinotage. Bellevue Wine Estate, located right in the heart of this distinguished area, benefits from a unique combination of climate, soil, and topography, making it a prime location for producing premium Pinotage wines.
The Historic Connection
Bellevue Wine Estate has a longstanding history in South African viticulture. Since its acquisition in 1861 by Dirk Cloete Morkel, the estate has been at the forefront of adopting innovative farming techniques. This spirit of innovation was notably carried on by subsequent generations. In 1953, Pieter (PK) Morkel began planting Pinotage extensively, recognizing the potential of both the variety and the estate’s terroir. This marked a significant point in the estate’s history, aligning Bellevue with the evolution of Pinotage as a key player in South Africa’s wine industry.
The Ideal Climate for Pinotage
The Bottelary Hills enjoy a Mediterranean climate—mild, moist winters and warm, dry summers, moderated by cool breezes from the nearby oceans. This climate provides a long growing season, allowing Pinotage grapes to develop a full range of flavors while maintaining essential acidity—a balance crucial for producing high-quality wine.
Soil: The Foundation of Flavor
The varied soils of Bottelary Hills, rich in decomposed granite and sandy loam, offer excellent drainage, crucial for the health of Pinotage vines. These soils stress the vines appropriately, leading to the production of concentrated berries that contribute to the depth and complexity of the wine.
Altitude and Aspect that Enhance Character
With its undulating terrain, Bellevue benefits from a range of elevations and aspects, allowing for nuanced control over vineyard microclimates. Strategic planting on these slopes maximizes sun exposure and air circulation, key factors in managing the health and maturity of Pinotage grapes.
At Bellevue Wine Estate, our deep roots in the Bottelary Hills and our commitment to excellence combine to create ideal conditions for Pinotage. Through careful stewardship of our land and vines, we continue to honor our heritage while producing wines that are expressive of their terroir. We invite you to explore the legacy and flavor of Bellevue through each bottle of our distinctive Pinotage.
