Veni, Vino, Variety
Welcome to Veni, Vino, Variety – a podcast where every episode uncorks the story of a single grape.
From the rolling hills of Burgundy to sun-drenched valleys of California, we explore the world of wine one variety at a time. Whether you’re a seasoned sommelier or just wine-curious, you’ll discover the flavors, regions, winemaking styles, and food pairings that make each grape unique.
🍇 Learn what makes Pinot Noir poetic, why Chardonnay divides opinions, or how Tempranillo found its soul in Rioja.
 🍷 Taste the terroir, the tradition, and the twists behind each bottle.
 ✈️ Travel through stories, not just vineyards – with a splash of history, culture, and fun facts along the way.
Each episode is short, story-driven, and ready to sip.
So pour a glass, press play, and let’s explore the variety in vino.
Veni, Vino, Variety
123 - Pinotage
🍷 Episode 123: Pinotage – Smoky Rebel with a Root
Ready to meet one of the most polarizing grapes in the wine world? In this episode, we’re uncorking the bold and uniquely South African world of Pinotage—a grape with a fascinating origin story, a comeback arc, and flavor notes that just might surprise you.
Here’s what you’ll sip on in this episode:
- The wild story behind how Pinotage was created by crossing Pinot Noir and Cinsaut
- Why early Pinotage wines got a bad rep—and how winemakers turned it around
- What flavors to expect in your glass (yes, there might be a hint of bacon or coffee!)
- The best foods to pair with Pinotage, from braai meats to smoky cheeses
- Where in the world Pinotage is grown beyond South Africa—and how styles differ
Come join us for a taste of one of South Africa’s boldest and most misunderstood grapes. If you enjoyed this sip, be sure to subscribe, rate the podcast, and explore more grapes with us in future episodes! 🍇
6 sec intro
21 sec outro