Budget wines for March

Obikwa Moscato 2012 (R24.99 from major retailers)
One of the things about tasting wine for a living is that you need to be able to recognise and acknowledge wines that are not to your taste, but may be to other people’s. This is a case in point – I’m not a big fan of sweet wines, but if you are, this has lots to recommend it – fresh fruity flavours, a good price and an excellent low abv of only 8%. Chuck an ice block in and enjoy.

Zorgvliet Silver Myn Sauvignon Blanc 2012 (R34.99 from Ultra Liquors)
I’m punting a pair of Zorgvliet’s this month for the simple reason that I think they offer brilliant value and I really like winemaker Neil Moorhouse and his unpretentious, straightforward style. This is a great example – it made it to the finals of Platter’s Superquaffer of the Year last year and you can see why. Uncomplicated mouthful of green and yellow fruit with tangy fresh acidity and lengthy finish.

Vondeling Petit Blanc 2012 (R39.99 from Ultra Liquors)
Soooo many people I know have this as their own personal ‘house wine’ – it’s not funny! A blend of Chenin, Chardonnay and Viognier, this is worryingly easy to drink. Crisp, fresh, fruity crowd-pleaser of note – there really is no excuses for not buying at least 2 bottles of this wine at a time.

Santa Julia Malbec, Mendoza, Argentina 2011 (R39.99 from Checkers)
At this price, this wine is one of the cheapest imports around! Malbec is Argentina’s signature grape – they actually tend to make better versions than the French, which is where the variety comes from originally. This wine is relatively simple (as you might expect from the price) but still packs a powerful berry/cherry punch with juicy tannins and fresh acidity. Good braai partner.

Mad Hatter Sangiovese 2010 (R39.99 from Ultra Liquors)
Since we’re into unusual varieties, let’s carry on with this one shall we? The Mad Hatter range comes from Bovlei Cellars and is meant to showcase some lesser-known grapes. This is a simple affair with the signature tangy acidity which you expect from Sangiovese. Try it with a rustic pasta sauce or slow-cooked lamb shank.