Yes, the 2022 grape harvest is well underway in the Cape and so far the quality is looking good. The quantity is a little lower than last year but still ahead of the previous averages so fingers crossed it continues that way.
So while we were thinking about South Africa, it reminded us it was about time we put some of their wines on offer to you. So here we go.
Rustenberg Sauvignon Blanc – Stellenbosch
What a wonderful Sauvignon Blanc. A superb effort from Murray Barlow and his team. Coming from the region's highest vineyards the acidity is protected and is the freshness of the fruit. The nose is bursting with Sauvignon aromas of tropical fruits while still retaining those notes of gooseberry and grass. Hints of passionfruit emerge with oxygen and the crisp, fresh palate is phenomenal. A wine not to be missed.
DeMorgenzon DMZ Chenin Blanc – Stellenbosch
Fruit from old, bush vine-trained Chenin Blanc vines grown on weathered granite and sandstone is selected from cool areas of Stellenbosch with good exposure to cooling sea breezes. The grapes are harvested at the point of optimum ripeness, once they have attained a light, yellow hue. It is fresh, clean and with tons of vibrant fruit. Green apple, apricot, peach, hints of honey and floral aromas characterise a bright and upfront nose. The palate is rich with bold fruit flavours that culminates with a lingering aftertaste. Terrific with or without food.
Bouchard Finlayson Blanc de Mer – Walker Bay
Bouchard Finlayson Blanc De Mer is a lip-smacking, cool climate blend that is the perfect partner to fish, shellfish and white meats. It has a fragrant, Riesling dominated nose of grape, lime and peach fruit with a lovely weight of fruit on the palate and a luscious but mouthwatering finish. The richness of Viognier is countered by the Riesling's acidity and the Chardonnay's structure, followed by honeyed white fruit, lime and cape gooseberry flavours.
Glenelly Glass Collection Merlot – Stellenbosch
Glenelly Glass Collection Merlot is a deep, richly coloured wine. It displays intense, dark fruit and spicy plum aromas, reminiscent of a Black Forest Gateaux. This Merlot shows tremendous concentration, richness and generous fruit on the palate, with fine but well balanced tannins to embrace it all.
Pinot Noir – Paul Cluver – Elgin
Paul Cluver Pinot Noir is a beautiful garnet hue. The nose is a combination of pepper and red berry, wild mushroom, wild berry compote with a slight meatiness. The palate is a continuation of all of these aromas, with the addition of a minerally, star anise spice character. As usual, it is well structured and poised with a tantalising mineral core.
Ernie Els Big Easy Shiraz Blend – Stellenbosch
The Ernie Els Big Easy Shiraz Blend offers a spicy, savoury richness; Over and above the Shiraz, the Cabernet Sauvignon adds structure while dashes of Grenache, Mourvèdre and Cinsault give a classy Provençal feel. The juicy nose and palate is enhanced by gorgeously perfumed Viognier, adding an extra dimension of silky depth. Plenty of black and red fruits and a rich kirsch character lead to pain grillé notes and hints of Asian spice. Medium bodied and yet densely fruited, this charming wine finishes with a suggestion of toasted nuts and sweet red cherries. Fresh, velvety and delicious in its youth, it can also be drunk over the next four or five years.