Grapes for this wine were harvested from dryland bush vines at Knollefontein farm in the Voor-Paardeberg region and from high-altitude vineyards in Breedekloof. Knollefontein is home to an expansive planting of low-growing, unirrigated Pinotage bush vines that receive plenty of sunshine and produce ripe, expressive fruit. For the 2025 vintage, the bulk of the wine was fermented in stainless steel tanks and matured in those same tanks with oak staves. A further 15% came from a top Breedekloof vineyard situated at approximately 700 meters above sea level. This parcel was fermented separately in open-top fermenters using a combination of wild and commercial yeasts before being matured in first- and second-fill French and American oak barrels. Bringing these components together adds complexity while maintaining the soft, juicy and approachable character of The Den range. Unlike the previous blend, the 2025 is made from 100% Pinotage.

The history of Pinotage always makes for a fascinating story. Like Zinfandel in the US, in the right hands Pinotage can produce absolutely world-class wines. Warmer vintages tend to lean toward the Rhône in style, thanks to the Cinsault parent in the cross, while cooler vintages can show more of the elegance associated with its Pinot Noir parent. Painted Wolf winemaker Jeremy Borg learned his winemaking skills at Rosenblum Cellars in California, working extensively with Zinfandel, and continues to bring that same experience and attention to Pinotage. The Den represents the more approachable and social side of Painted Wolf, with wines intended to be enjoyed with friends and family. Named for the den at the heart of every painted wolf community, these are flavor-packed, soft and juicy comfort wines. Jenny Metelerkamp, who lived with the Borgs in the bush in Botswana, created the painted wolf ink drawing featured on the front label.