Franschhoek is the culinary capital of South Africa – perhaps because of the influence of the French Huguenots who settled there in the 17th century. This white is from a top cellar in the region, and was created to honour the contribution these immigrants made to the country’s wine industry. Young winemaker Richard Duckitt began his career in Stellenbosch, and quickly showed a flair for his craft during his first year at the Muratie Wine Estate – going on to gain valuable experience at the world renowned Stags’ Leap cellars in the Napa Valley. He crafted this fine Chenin Blanc using a special yeast to slow fermentation and matured it on its fine lees for a nutty complexity. A fine partner to a creamy fish pie, chicken or spicy Thai dishes.
Fairview The Back Road Carignan 2010
Carignan has a long history in the Cape but has been replaced by more ‘fashionable’ varieties in recent years. With potential for wines this juicy and delicious though, that trend must surely be reversed. Better known in southern France, Carignan slipped out of favour even there until winemakers realised that by limiting yields from old vines “you can suddenly revel in a red wine that combines density and succulence with an austere yet compelling beauty” (Andrew Jefford). Charles Back came across a small patch of old vines along a back road in Swartland and got to work. His full-bodied Carignan sure has that density and succulence and is packed with cherry and plum flavours. Perfect for barbecues or a lamb chop or sausage and mash supper.
West Cape Howe Shiraz 2011
A paradise for surfers, Western Australia is home to some of the country’s finest wineries. An absence of extreme temperatures in summer and winter allows the grapes to linger on the vine and develop impressive flavour and depth. The upshot is some gorgeously complex and elegant wines. This fine red is from West Cape Howe Wines, which was run by Brendan and Kylie Smith for a “highly successful seven years” (Halliday). Gavin Berry, former winemaker to legendary Plantagenet Wines, bought the property in 2004 and has continued to build on their success. Gavin combined smoky blackberry Shiraz with cherry rich Tempranillo, maturing the wine in oak barrels for a year to add complexity. Enjoy with peppered steaks or roast lamb.
Le Geminus Sauvignon Blanc Semillon 2010
An equal blend of Sauvignon and Semillon à la the great white Graves of Bordeaux yet with distinctive Cape character, Le Geminus is in a class of its own. Internationally experienced winemaker Tinus van Niekerk sourced premium quality grapes from several top regions close to the Atlantic or Indian Oceans. Meticulous vineyard management and careful blending of the components ensures a wine of incredible finesse. The Semillon was aged for 15 months in second use French barrels to add further subtle complexity to the wine. A delicate oaky edge complements its crisp, zesty citrus flavours and mineral notes.Decant an hour prior to serving cool, not over chilled, to show this fine white at its best. Enjoy with seafood or grilled chicken.
The Grinder Pinotage 2012
South Africa’s trump card red, Pinotage, is instantly recognisable, with its distinctive, spicy coffee aroma and sumptuous, rich berry flavours. A cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsault, it was first bred in South Africa in 1925 and was originally referred to as Hermitage. The French, of course, were not happy with that so it became Pinotage – and a much-loved varietal in its own right. The Grinder is a textbook example of the quality good Pinotage can achieve. The grapes were picked at the last possible minute for optimum ripeness (and that lovely velvety texture) from three premium vineyard sites. But the first thing you’ll notice is the wonderful mocha roast coffee bean aroma. Perfect with char-grilled spare ribs and garlicky lamb dishes.