I’m a fan of this 1000-case winery’s Chardonnay. This is the first time I’ve tried their Pinot. Pale ruby in colour with an orange rim, its raspberry nose has a light floral note. The wine is medium-bodied, dry, earthy, with red berry flavours in Burgundian style, with a dry finish. The greenness on the end palate suggests young vines but the wine augurs well for future vintages.
Atlantic-influenced Syrah (75%) and Touriga Nacional (25%) blends harmoniously. Seductive scents of violets, black fruits and spicy meat. Satin texture supports rich blackberry and raspberry fruit, buttressed by sweet tannins. Satisfying liquorice and cocoa finish. Superb with sautéed sausages and kale.
This ruby tinged lager is seasoned with fresh raspberries, rosehips and hibiscus flowers. The aroma is dominated by tart berries with a touch of dried floral notes and, on the sip, crackery malt and noble hops with a hint of sweetness. 12 Minutes to Destiny is an easy-drinking, fruity brew with a firm lager backbone. Pair it with fresh strawberries and whipped cream for an easy summertime dessert.
Truly authentic Prosecco, like this one, comes from the hilly DOCG region between the towns of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene. Gentle spritz, sappy green fruit with a discreet drop of honey, refreshingly light alcohol and moderate acidity exemplify Prosecco’s easy charm.
This is the only sparkling wine produced on the island of Santorini. Made from 100% Assyrtiko and vinified via the traditional method, there are pinpoint creamy bubbles and aromas of mineral, apple, citrus and yeast. The palate possesses crisp acidity and excellent length.
Biodynamic beauty. Reyneke was South Africa’s first certified biodynamic vineyard and winery, and all their wines are made without additives (yeasts, enzymes acidity or settling agents). Young RSA star winemaker John Reyneke's old vine (50+ years) Chenin Blanc on decomposed granite loans is harvested from a single vineyard in the Polkadraai Hills, just west of Stellenbosch. Whole-bunch pressed, this was fermented in both 300 L barrels (second fill) and a 2500 L foudré, and spent 10 months on the lees followed by a 2-month stint in stainless for tightening. Serious and savoury, this vibrates the length with a flinty mineral hum, with savoury meadow herbs, lemon thistle and quince lining the medium-plus palate. There's a gentle but streaming wild bergamot/Earl Grey tea that lingers on the finish. A striking Chenin.
Perfumed red fruit scents show prominent cherry with a pinch of cinnamon. Strawberry flavours kick in on the palate supported by moderate tannins, balanced fresh acidity, a light splash of chocolate and a pinch of peppery spice on the finish. Seductive Pinot charm at a bargain price.