FROM a vineyard that recently turned 50, the current-release 2022 Stellenbosch 1679 Old Vine Pinotage is probably the best vintage of this wine since the maiden 2019. Its rating of 97+ at the Global Wine Masters (UK) followed a score of 95/100 at the Fine Wine Awards (SA), which came after being chosen among the winners in the Pinotage Association's Top 10 competition (SA) in 2024. In fact, the Koelenhof winemaking team led by cellarmaster Nicholas Husselman has a reputation for coming up with really good Pinotage in a range of styles time after time… In 2025, the Pinotage centenary year, their accolades received from panels of wine experts tasting ‘blind' also included a couple for the Koelenbosch Director's Reserve, also vintage 2022: 95/100 in the Gilbert & Gaillard International Challenge and 94 points at the Veritas Awards.
For more about Stellenbosch 1679, the flagship range in the Koelenhof Winery portfolio, click here.
STELLENBOSCH 1679 OLD VINE PINOTAGE 2022
WO Stellenbosch. Single-vineyard wine made using grapes (small berries) from 47-year-old bush vines planted in soil derived mainly from granite and ranging in colour from reddish to yellow. Open-top fermenters; seven days on the skins. 18 months in 300L French oak barrels
Alc 14.9 | RS 2.4 | TA 6.0 | pH 3.5
From Producers' Tasting Notes: Full-bodied, ruby red colour, aromas of fresh cherries and hints of spice accompanied by red fruit and mocha on the palate. Will peak between mid-2024 and 2028 as tertiary aromas develop.
Producers' Pairing Suggestions: Game, beef and lamb dishes.
R400pb ex-Koelenhof Winery, Stellenbosch.
