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.
Croydon has its heritage from 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.
