A cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsault, Pinotage is unique to South Africa, but was neglected in favour of international stars until recently. Today, however, it is “the talk of the party” (Tim Atkin MW). Drakenskloof was made by Paarl born Anton Swarts at one of South Africa’s top award winning wineries, Spier, founded in 1692 near Stellenbosch. The estate not only boasts a rich wine heritage, but within the domaine there is also a hotel, restaurant and cheetah reserve!Anton aged the wine in a combination of American and French oak, which has allowed gently smoky tannins to support the ripe berry flavours. Soft enough to be enjoyed on its own, this red is versatile with food, too – lamb or pork and chorizo casserole perhaps.
The Rustler Chenin Blanc 2011
Voted South Africa’s ‘Winemaker of the Year 2009’, Bruce Jack learned his craft at iconic Aussie wineries Grant Burge and Simon Hackett and also worked a vintage in Bordeaux – where he was struck by lightning while fork-lifting a pallet of wine! Some might speculate that this was the source of all Bruce’s energy, not to mention his talent for super-charged whites – but the truth is that he knows the technical side of winemaking inside out and has real passion that shines through in every wine he makes. Made with Chenin from old, bush-trained vines and vinified in Bruce’s award-winning Flagstone winery, this crisp, appley white makes a delicious aperitif, and is a great partner for creamy sauced white meats or pan-fried belly pork.
Tulbagh ‘Dry’ Chenin Blanc
This appealing blend has a bright lemon colour with green tints and aromatic bouquet of apple and kiwi fruit. Ripe, tropical fruit flavours persist on the palate with lingering pineapple and fresh acidity to balance.
Thelema Mountain Red 2009, Elgin
Ripe red fruit with a spicy and complex character. Drinking very well at the moment but will develop beautifully with a couple of years ageing.
Bon Courage Chardonnay 2011
Leading wine writers Hugh Johnson and Robert Joseph agree Robertson stands out in the Cape for quality and value. Bon Courage is firmly at the forefront of its top wineries coming away from the South African Young Wines Show 2009 with nine Champion Wines and 19 Gold medals. Replanted in the 1960s with Chardonnay and Sauvignon, the estate has 175 hectares of beautifully mature vines producing intense flavours. Grapes were picked at night and early morning to maintain maximum freshness. The juice of the crushed grapes was left on the skins for 24 hours to extract all those evocative pear and apple aromas.This has lovely balance and loads of easy South African style! Enjoy by the glass anytime or with grilled fish, roast chicken or pork.
