Cape blend

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Cape blend is a South African red wine made of a blend of varieties, one which must be Pinotage.

The Pinotage component should be not less than 30% and not more than 70% according to the Pinotage Association and accepted by Veritas who use the definition in their competition, but it doesn't yet have a legal recognition.

Some producers argue that a smaller proportion of Pinotage makes a better blend, but the Pinotage Association counter that legally any varietally named wine can have up to 25% of another variety included as it is considered insignificant.

The first wine to use the name Cape Blend on its label was Beyerskloof's Synergy, comprising Merlot 39%, Pinotage 36% and Cabernet Sauvignon 25%.

The Cape Blend concept received a tremendous boost in 2004 when International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC) in London awarded its Best Red Wine Trophy to Kaapzicht Estate Steytler Vision 2001, which consists of 40% Pinotage, 50% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Merlot.