South African Wines | Old World meets New

A lot of us are have a very difficult time right now, but the wine region that is suffering the most is probably South Africa. Alcohol sales have been banned there until very recently, so Cape producers are in desperate trouble.

We can help a little by buying some of their wine. Not all heroes wear capes – some drink Cape! Luckily a lot of south African wines are delicious and great value.

So grab a bottle (or half-bottle) of South African white, and another of red, and log in so that we can enjoy, compare and contrast them together.

I will send you wine recommendations (look below), as well as food pairing ideas. The wines I have chosen come from Babylonstoren Winery and Diemersfontein Wine and Country Estate.

As we taste we will look at the maps, diagrams and photos that help unlock the secrets of this dramatic and history-laden wine region.

The cost for the organisation, hosting and slide show is just 10€.

Cheers, Sean
0151 71 72 1627

WINE

The iconic white wine of South Africa is a Chenin Blanc (Steen) varietal, but any blended wine with a healthy slug of CB in it would also be a good choice. Alternatives are Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay.

For red wines, Pinotage is a great option since it is hardly made anywhere else in the world. But Bordeaux-style blends. GSMs and varietals from Shiraz (Syrah) and Cabernet Sauvignon are successful too.

There are also rosés and Champagne-method sparklers (labelled as MCC), or you might even be able to source a fortified wine.

FOOD

South African whites generally pairs well with Asian food, and white meats. The more acidic ones will do a job with fish as well, of course, and cheese too. Chenin and Sauvignon are often drunk with goat’s cheese of course.

The reds can be fruity, dense and complex – ideal for red meats, sausages, game and pâtés. One recommendation for veggies is a chil(l)i sin carne.

South African wines feature in my blog on wine price cheats. I give you our insider tips on how to drink great wines for affordable prices.