My favourite ever Mae West quote is “When faced with a choice between two evils, I always go for the one I’ve never tried before.”
I love that because I just don’t understand those people who go to the shops and come back with exactly the same wine every time. Time for a change, people!
Don’t know where to start? Well, that’s what I’m for. Here are my top 5 wines to get into your glass before this year is over – happy drinking.
1. A Platter Five Star Wine. My favourites this year were the 2009 Julien Schaal Chardonnay (R130) and the 2008 Boekenhoutskloof Cabernet (rarer than hens’ teeth – try the farm!). Get in line now.
2. An older Sauvignon Blanc. My teeth are already itching at the thought of all the 2011 Sauvignon which is going to come my way within the next couple of weeks. Sauvignon doesn’t need to give you heartburn, the best ones can easily keep for a year or so. If you can, head to Wine Concepts who’ve got some 2009’s, 08’s, 07’s and even an 06! Best option is the Black Oystercatcher 2009 at R76 – fabulous stuff.
3. An unknown wine farm. Every year the Platter guide adds more entries as increasing numbers of people try their hand at winemaking. So give an unknown a go this year – I’ve been enjoying the 2010 Seven Springs Sauvignon (R72) and there are plenty more newbies around as well.
4. An overseas wine. Local is sooooo lekker that there isn’t a real need for anyone to try anything else – except in the interests of broadening your palate and trying a new taste sensation. Visit Caroline’s Fine Wines for great Italian and Chilean wine, try Wine Cellar for some excellent deals on Bordeaux and Burgundy and PHD wines for very well-priced Australian and New Zealand wines.
5. An iconic wine. There has been much debate at the end of last year as to whether SA truly has an ‘icon wine.’ Contenders include Klein Constantia Vin de Constance 2005 (R385), Meerlust Rubicon 2006 (R275), Kanonkop Paul Sauer 2007 (R395) – try one of these for yourself and see if you agree.
But wait… that’s not all! For my full Top 10 wines to try in 2011, visit Food24’s Wine section.
Bottoms up to a year of new evils!
Bon courage,