Which red grape was developed in South Africa as a cross with Pinot Noir?

The red grape developed in South Africa as a cross with Pinot Noir is Pinotage. This unique grape variety was created in the 1920s by Professor Abraham Izak Perold, who combined Pinot Noir with Cinsault, a grape that was known at the time as Hermitage in South Africa. The intention behind this cross was to create a variety that would thrive in South Africa's distinct climate and terroir, while also possessing the qualities of Pinot Noir.

Pinotage is notable for its deep color and bold flavors, often featuring notes of red berries, plum, and sometimes smoke or earthiness, reminiscent of its parent grape Pinot Noir. The variety has become synonymous with South African wine, contributing significantly to the country’s wine identity and is now cultivated across the globe. Understanding Pinotage's background enhances appreciation for how regional conditions and grape breeding can influence wine production, particularly in South Africa.

While the other options represent well-known grape varieties, they do not share the same origin story related to Pinot Noir in South Africa, thus reinforcing why Pinotage is the correct choice in this context.