Region and Vineyards
Beaumont Jackal's River Pinotage comes from Bot River in Walker Bay, South Africa, a moderate maritime cool-climate setting that helps retain freshness while allowing Pinotage to develop ripe, generous fruit. The coastal influence brings a measured growing rhythm, reflected in the wine's medium weight, juicy profile and fine tannins rather than heavy extraction.
Vine age is central to the cuvée. The oldest Pinotage parcels were planted in 1974, giving them 49 years of maturity in 2023; younger blocks are four and 26 years old. This range of vine ages contributes different layers of fruit and structure to the blend, from vibrant red-berry lift to deeper mulberry and blackberry tones. Together, the Bot River site and carefully tended parcels define a fresh, elegant expression of the variety.
Winemaking
Beaumont's 2023 Jackal's River is made from 100% Pinotage, harvested by hand between February and March. The grapes undergo a short cold soak in open concrete fermenters before fermentation, with three to four punchdowns each day to build colour and flavour while preserving the variety's juicy character. This hands-on approach supports the wine's clean, fine-grained tannins and bright berry expression.
After fermentation, the wine spends 14 months in French oak, of which 20% is new, adding subtle spice, vanilla and smoke rather than dominating the fruit. It then rests for a further eight months in tank, allowing the components to integrate before bottling. The finished 2023 vintage is dry, medium-bodied and 13.14% alcohol, with total acidity of 5.5 g/L and residual sugar of 1.4 g/L. Production was 16,700 bottles.
Tasting Notes
- Color: Clear ruby red with a youthful, vivid appearance.
- Aroma: Mulberry, blackberry, blueberry and raspberry mingle with red berries, thyme, gentle spice, vanilla and a light smoky note.
- Palate: Dry, medium-bodied and juicy, with generous berry fruit, Pinot-like elegance, fine tannins, subtle oak seasoning and a clean, lightly savoury finish.
Did You Know?
Beaumont first produced Pinotage under its own brand in 1994, helping establish the variety as a distinctive signature of South African wine.
Wine Pairing Ideas
- Bobotie: Its aromatic spices and gentle sweetness complement the wine's ripe berry fruit and savoury Pinotage character.
- Game dishes: Venison or other game brings out the wine's fine tannins, earthy depth and subtle smoky notes.
- Pepper steak: The pepper's warmth works with the wine's spice, while the juicy fruit refreshes the palate between bites.
- Grilled snoek: The fish's smoky richness pairs with the wine's medium body, clean grip and restrained oak.
