South African Wines
In this post I’d like to focus on three wines that I tasted during my most recent trip to South Africa. I will start with white varieties tasted and then move to the red varieties, in no particular order.
Kanu Chenin Blanc 2006
I loved this wine. South Africa is in the process of perfecting their Chenin Blanc and this one is proof of the great improvement that’s been made over the past several years. It is a perfect summer wine to be served at a BBQ, however I also see it as a great wine to serve with fish or seafood dishes. On the nose there were hints of fruit, specifically green melon and gooseberries, well balances with savory, mineral notes and lastly some spice on the top. I also picked up some nuts and wood on the nose which is very unusual and which added extra depth which I savored in every sip. Very smooth on the palate. The aftertaste was also most interesting and was a little grassy in nature, and some spice, which resulted in this wine being very ‘full bodied’ for a chenin blanc and a great surprise. Great wine. 90/100 (retail price around $9)
LaMotte Sauvignon Blanc
This is one of the best sellers in the country and I could see why. Well balanced zesty sauvignon blanc with steely, mineral notes and some fruit and green pepper on the aftertaste. A true people pleaser. Personally I thought it lacked some depth, however this it an amiable wine that is easy to drink. I recommend to serve it with grilled fish or chicken dishes. My rating – 88/100 (Retail price around $9)
Vilafonte Series C
This wine is currently served in the White House and I could see why – it was a splendid intense, full bodied and powerful wine. This full bodied red had earthy undertones and strong notes of cigar box as well as spicier red meat flavors, reminding me of a char-grilled rib-eye steak served with pepper crust. These flavors are ultimately balanced with lingering vanilla bean notes on the aftertaste. Lots of oak. Every mouthful was a treat. Very smooth palate and will serve well for the next 5 years. Excellent wine. 92/100
Just happened to come across you site, and I’ve been reading it all morning.
Very interesting!
by SA in MN
on 08. Feb, 2010
Did you go to Kanu’s vineyard? As a big chenin fan I’ve tasted through several producers from both Loire and SA. I must say Kanu is at the top of my list. Delightful wine!
by AWineToBe
on 08. Feb, 2010
I have actually not been to the vineyard and would love to visit it once during another trip.
Agreed, it seems that South Africa is placing itself on the map as one of the better producers of Chenin Blanc globally. I look forward to observing its progress in making this a reality over the upcoming years.
by Erica
on 08. Feb, 2010