It’s such a dichotomy isn’t it?? It’s Summer so you want something refreshing and easy to drink but our braai grills are full of ribs, steak, chops and wors. What’s the solution? Fruity reds, that’s what!
Give me a big glassful of berries, cherries and plums and I’m happy. Or you can even chill your reds down slightly and kill a couple of birds with one stone. Here are a few good value, fruity little numbers to enjoy this summer. All prices are recommended retail price or cellar door.
Since 1922 Bossieveld Red (Cab/Merlot) 2013 (R32)
This is a smart new look for these well-made, excellent value wines and this one in particular will shine with a great homemade burger or some tasty ribs.
Nederburg 56Hundred Merlot 2013 (R48)
This range of wines from Nederburg commemorates the original selling price of the farm way back in the 18th century. It was one of the food-matching wines used in the last series of MasterChef SA and arrived at my doorstep accompanied by a cheesy beef sandwich which was utterly delicious! Try it with something robust and intensely savoury.
Graham Beck Railroad Red 2013 (R50)
There are not many quaffers as good value as this one from Graham Beck! A blend of mainly Shiraz with some Cabernet Sauvignon and the tiniest bit of Viognier, this has long been my father-in-law’s favourite holiday tipple – the perfect blend to kick-back and relax with this summer.
Saxenburg Drunken Fowl Shiraz 2013 (R70)
A new label from Shiraz expert Nico van der Merwe, made in a deliberately fruity style, yet still with character and smoky tannins. It’s been in American and French oak – none new – adding a slight hint of charry sweetness and will be a winner with anything braaied this summer.
Plaisir de Merle Petit Plaisir 2013 (R89)
Another variant of the Shiraz/Cab combo which is working so well for easy-drinking red wines at the moment. This one also includes some Merlot and some Cabernet Franc and the whole wine is a delicious and fruity mouthful without being sticky or overly sweet. An excellent all-day wine with plenty of spice and character.
Lomond SMV 2013 (R115)
Some of the most exciting wines in SA are coming from this new region way down in the very tip of Africa and this maiden release surely qualifies for that category. A blend of Shiraz, Mourvedre and Viognier, this has lashings of fruit, reined in by the elegance and peppery spice you’d expect to find most often from cooler areas.
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