Going away over Easter – or indeed, any of the many other public holiday weekends we’ve got coming up??
Well, here’s my wine survival kit to cover all eventualities and occasions. Enjoy – I know I will be.
1 x Bubbly in case of celebrations
I’d choose the JC le Roux Scintilla MCC 2008 (R175) which has just been released.
Without any persuasion, coercion or bribery, I would unhesitatingly put this into my top 5 fizzes in SA for sheer class, breadth of flavour, wonderful lees-y aromas and mouthfeel and crisp, fresh finish.
Bloody good fizz and if you ignore it cos of who makes it – you’re the one missing out.
4 x Everyday Drinking Whites
De Bos Walker Bay Chardonnay 2013 (R60) is the Fairtrade label from Bosman Family Wines’ farm in the Hemel en Aarde.
It’s a good-value range, utilising the skills of winemaker Corlea Fourie but offered in simple, modern packaging at excellent prices.
I like this one because it’s unwooded which gives it mass appeal, but it’s got a little extra richness and creaminess from some lees-stirring which keeps finicky experts happy too.
4 x Everyday Drinking Reds
I am having to rethink quite a few prejudices at the moment, particularly about old-fashioned, long-established labels which I generally ignore.
One such is Alto Rouge 2011 (R75) which is not a wine I would have chosen previously, but sure as hell would now.
I was really impressed with the lovely depth of flavour, smooth but present tannins and overall balance of this wine. Slap my wrist for being so blinkered in the past, but this is a genuine crowd-pleaser which will work for almost any occasion.
1 x Special Occasion White
I’ve been doing some fun presentations recently about whether wine goes better with food than beer – and of course, the answer is wine, I’m pleased to say!
But not just any wine – the best wine to go with food in my opinion is the Credo Chenin Blanc 2010 (R100) from Stellenbosch Vineyards.
They’ve been sponsoring our Grape vs Grain debates (next sessions will be at the Cheese Festival!) and this wine has been an out-and-out winner every time. Subtle oak, rich baked yellow fruit, balancing acidity – perfect!
1 x Special Occasion Red
I feel almost a bit bad about the fact that I opened this bottle now when I probably should have kept it for a few more years, but then I drank it and thought ‘Nope, it’s just lovely now too.’
So I could have hung onto the Shannon Mount Bullet Merlot 2011 (R285) and don’t doubt that I would have been rewarded, but I’m glad I enjoyed the smooth, smoky, dark-berried fruit with a twist of spice, chocolate and herbs now anyway.
Enjoy it with something special – it deserves nothing less.
1 x Dessert Wine
Chocolate and alcohol – what’s not to love?
If you agree, then you should try the new Bottega range of Liqueur grappas including the Gianduia Chocolate Hazelnut Liqueur (R209.95 for 500mls).
You can have it over ice as if it were an Amarula, but the best way is to have it over good-quality vanilla ice cream. Sprinkle with some chopped hazelnuts, a swirl of chocolate sauce and over-indulge……