Cinsaut from South Africa

Cinsaut from the Cape is back! Discover the renaissance of this versatile grape variety in our red wines, rosés, and legendary blends from South Africa.

Wine guide

Cinsaut: The Comeback Kid from the Cape of Good Wines

For a long time, Cinsaut in South Africa was considered a workhorse, a high-yield grape for simple wines and brandies. But those days are over! A new generation of winemakers has rediscovered the incredible potential of this heat-resistant grape variety. From the old vines, they conjure wines that delight with finesse, fruit, and elegance. Cinsaut is experiencing a true renaissance, impressively demonstrating its versatility – from an easy-drinking summer wine to the backbone of world-famous blends.

Style: From Fruity & Light to Power Blends

The magic of Cinsaut lies in its adaptability. Vinified as a single-varietal red wine, it captivates with its light colour, low tannins, and an explosive bouquet of red fruits like strawberry, raspberry, and juicy cherry. It's the perfect, slightly chilled red wine for warmer days. As a rosé, it shows a dry, mineral, and refreshing side. However, it also reveals its true greatness in blends. In legendary cuvées like 'The Chocolate Block', Cinsaut contributes its fresh fruit and elegance to tame powerful partners like Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon, creating a wonderful harmony.

Growing Regions: Franschhoek and Stellenbosch Leading the Way

Today's best Cinsauts come from South Africa's most renowned wine regions. Particularly in Franschhoek, a picturesque valley with a long winemaking tradition, you'll find excellent examples, often from old vines. The winemakers here emphasize the finesse and delicate fruit of the variety. In neighbouring Stellenbosch, the heart of the South African wine world, Cinsaut also plays an important role. Here, it is grown as a single varietal and also used in classic red blends in the Bordeaux or Rhône style, to which it lends a special freshness.

Food Pairing: An All-Rounder for Many Occasions

Thanks to its moderate tannins and lively acidity, Cinsaut is an incredibly rewarding food companion. The red wines pair wonderfully with grilled meats, chicken, pasta with tomato sauces, or Mediterranean cuisine. It is also a good choice for slightly spicy dishes. The dry rosés are ideal partners for salads, seafood, light appetizers, or simply as a stylish aperitif on the patio.

Price Range: Accessible Pleasure and Premium Icons

Frequently asked questions

What is special about Cinsaut from South Africa?

South African Cinsaut is often light to medium-bodied, with aromas of red berries, soft tannins, and great freshness. Long overlooked as a simple grape, it is now celebrated for producing elegant red wines, rosés, and as a finesse-adding partner in top blends.

Is Cinsaut always a red wine?

No, Cinsaut is very versatile. We offer it as a light red wine, a dry, refreshing rosé, and as a key component in famous blends like 'The Chocolate Block', where it contributes fruit and elegance.

How should I serve Cinsaut?

Cinsaut red wines benefit from being served slightly chilled, at around 14-16°C (57-61°F). This enhances their fruit and freshness. Cinsaut rosés taste best well-chilled at 8-10°C (46-50°F).

What food pairs well with Cinsaut?

Cinsaut red wine is an all-rounder for grilled meats, poultry, Mediterranean dishes, and even slightly spicy cuisine. The rosés are perfect with salads, fish, seafood, or as an aperitif.

How quickly do you ship within the EU?

We ship across the EU. Delivery to Germany takes 1-3 working days and is free for orders over €120. For other EU countries, it typically takes 2-5 working days, with shipping costs from €6.90 to €11.90. Shipping to the EU is free for orders over €150.