Head of the glass: Pinotage offers super South African wine happy hour in Beijing

By Jim Boyce

Those in central Beijing and in need of a glass or two of wine after work would do well to head to Pinotage in Sanlitun Soho, where eight South African options are available at rmb15 from 5 PM to 7 PM, Monday to Friday.

“Wine Time” is one of several specials at the downtown branch of this restaurant and wine bar, with lunch options of two courses at rmb88 or three courses at rmb108, including cappuccino, dark lager or juice. (I’m told the ostrich burger is popular.) Look for the current a la carte weekend brunch to soon turn into a buffet and for home-brew to join the menu.

As for that happy hour wine deal, there are four reds and four whites to enjoy while chilling at the bar or one of the tables:

• Zidela Sauvignon Blanc
• Simonsvlei Sauvignon Blanc
• Simonsvlei Chardonnay
• Boland Chenin-Sauvignon Blanc
• Zidela Cabernet Sauvignon
• Zidela Shiraz
• Simonsvlei Cabernet Sauvignon
• Simonsvlei Shiraz

Pinotage also has dozens of other options both from among the wines it imports or stocks from other distributors. And if you’re looking for a post-work snack, try the boerewors, a farmer’s sausage done in a roll “hot dog style”.

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