Short Street, Swartland (South Africa) Pinotage 2018

 As you probably know, Pinotage, a crossing of Pinot Noir and Cinsault grapes, can sometimes yield wines that might be described as “ho-hum.”  Short Street however, is a more serious and pleasing example of this unusual grape.  Deeply colored (as Pinotage tends to be), with earthy, smoky, leathery features, this is a nicely balanced wine that seems specifically designed to be enjoyed with food.  Beginning with all things beef, it also is a good companion for ham, lentils and other hearty grains, and it can be delicious with duck.