You generally get what you pay for when it comes to wine, so if you can stretch to between R40 and R80, you’re going to find something good. Here are a few ideas for a start.
Robertson Dry Sparkling Chenin Blanc NV (R47)
This was launched with a couple of sweet sisters earlier on this year and those who know me, know that sweet fizz really isn’t my thing. This isn’t exactly bone-dry but it does have lovely fresh acidity and would make a great sparkler for an early evening sundown party. And cos it’s not that pricy, you don’t need to feel bad if you add a splash of orange juice either.
De Wetshof Riesling 2012 (R75)
I had this at the most hilarious festival I’ve been to in ages – sometimes the weather is soooo bad, all you can do is laugh. This was the case with Riesling Rocks at Hartenberg last weekend where the rain chucked it down all day. But the wines were great (as was the company, food and music) and this was a favourite – lime marmalade, bouncy acidity and orange blossom finish. A Riesling from Robertson – well, whaddya know?!
Hartenberg Cab Shiraz 2010 (R58)
I came across this in what is turning out be a favourite family pizza joint, The Italian Kitchen in Tokai. Good food and a better than expected wine list, with lots of options by the glass and this wine definitely hit the spot. Everything you could want in a wine – smooth, spicy, rich and warming and all at a fabulous price.
Red ESCape 2010 (R54)
This is a ‘viral wine’ apparently which comes complete with funky labels and a press release full of double-entendres about networking, connecting and attachments. But at its heart, it’s a great drinking wine made from Shiraz and Pinotage (love this combination) by Guy Webber from Stellenzicht. Good value and very good drinking – those are connections worth making.
Brenaissance Lord Tom NV (R78)
I had a fun time at the launch of this wine estate and restaurant last week and have reviewed it on the site already, but thought I’d focus on the wine I went back to after the tasting – always a good indicator of favourites. We have no idea what’s in this blend because owner, Tom Breytenbach, refuses to divulge, but I suspect some Shiraz is in there at any rate. It’s chunky, chewy and very cheery and was my wine of choice with their very good pizzas.