Best South African Wines: Under-rated Bottles
When it comes to wine, South Africa is kinda like the cool kid at school that everyone wants to be friends with. Its wine scene has popped off in recent years, with winemakers blending tradition with fresh ideas. We’ve got a wild mix of varieties that we’re super excited to explore.
Why are South African wines worth trying, you ask? They pack a punch with bold flavors and offer something for everyone’s tastes. From the rich reds to the zingy whites, these wines are a journey in a bottle, taking us from the sunny vineyards to our cozy couch.
1) Kanonkop Kadette Cape Blend
Alright, folks, let’s dive into the magic that is Kanonkop Kadette Cape Blend. This gem is from South Africa and hails from the renowned Stellenbosch region. It’s known for being a rich, full-bodied red with a personality that’s hard to beat.
The key player here is Pinotage, which makes up a big part of this blend. Let’s not forget its buddies: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. These guys all come together like an Avengers team of grapes, but with less fighting and more flavor.
What makes the Kadette Cape Blend stand out is its amazing combo of red and black fruit flavors. Picture biting into a juicy plum or a handful of berries, with just a hint of chocolate and cinnamon. It’s like a party in your mouth, and everyone’s invited.
Best part? You can sip this while stuffing yourself with turkey or a hearty roast. It’s versatile like that and pairs up nicely with all sorts of delicious dishes. With the Kadette Cape Blend, we’re definitely raising our glasses and saying cheers to South African wine mastery.
2) Meerlust Rubicon
Alright, wine lovers, let’s chat about Meerlust Rubicon, a true gem from South Africa. This bad boy is not just your average red wine. It’s a smoky, full-bodied blend that’s got Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and sometimes a bit of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot thrown in for good measure.
Imagine sipping on deep, dark flavors like black currant and plum, with a little sprinkle of spices. It’s like a hug in a glass—a classy hug. The grapes hail from the lovely Stellenbosch region, known for giving us amazing wines.
Meerlust knows what they’re doing, using estate-grown grapes and making each sip worth savoring. It’s got this whole “no turning back” vibe. It’s rebellious, but in a fancy way. It’s perfect for impressing your most snobby wine friend’s palate without emptying your bank account.
In short, when we’re talking about the best wines out of South Africa, Meerlust Rubicon’s like that cool kid everyone wants to hang out with—just with way better taste!
3) Beyerskloof Pinotage Reserve
Alright, wine lovers, let’s talk about Beyerskloof Pinotage Reserve. This wine’s like the cool cousin at family parties, always exciting and never dull. With its roots firmly planted in Stellenbosch, this bottle brings the best of the Western Cape straight to our glasses.
It gives us a tasty mix of oak, chocolate, and just a hint of vanilla. It’s like dessert and dinner in one without the guilt trip. Every sip delivers a rich and bold experience that hits right, whether we’re chilling at home or at a fancy dinner pretending to know big words about wine.
Let’s not forget how well-balanced it is. The smooth tannins make sure our mouths aren’t left dry, unlike those awkward dinner conversations we try to avoid. Plus, it’s a great partner for meats and spicy dishes.
We’re not saying it’ll love us back, but we’re pretty sure this bottle will make us love wine even more. Who knew 100% Pinotage could feel this good? Cheers to discovering something new with every taste!
4) Rust en Vrede Estate Syrah
Alright, let’s talk about this awesome Rust en Vrede Estate Syrah. You know how some wines are born to be legends? Well, this one’s got its own fan club. We can see why people rave about this wine.
This Syrah comes from South Africa, where the sun shines bright on those vineyard grapes. It’s known for being super full-bodied, like that friend who always gives the best bear hugs. We’re talking luscious blackberry and plum vibes here.
With its rich flavors and a sprinkle of tannins, it’s like a tasty dance party in our mouths. We can’t get enough of the peppery kick it’s got going on. If you’re ever searching for a wine that’ll impress even the snobbiest of wine pals, we think this might be it.
5) Warwick The First Lady Cabernet Sauvignon
Alright folks, let’s talk about Warwick The First Lady Cabernet Sauvignon. This wine’s got quite the story. It’s named in honor of Norma Ratcliffe, the first woman winemaker at Warwick Estate. She’s a legend, and so is this wine.
Over in Stellenbosch, South Africa, this red beauty is crafted with care. It’s like a bottle of joy straight from the Western Cape. We’re talking big, bold flavors with notes of plum and blackberry. A real crowd-pleaser, if you ask us.
This Cabernet Sauvignon won’t break the bank either. With bottles usually priced under $12, it’s a win-win. Whether you’re hosting a fancy party or just chilling at home, it fits the bill.
So, grab a glass, pour some Warwick The First Lady, and toast to a bit of South African magic. Enjoy!
6) Groot Constantia Gouverneurs Reserve Red
Let’s talk about Groot Constantia Gouverneurs Reserve Red. This wine is like the rock star of South African wines. It’s made in Constantia, which is a swanky area near Cape Town. This red wine is from a Bordeaux blend, a fancy way of saying it’s made from different grape varieties like Cabernet and Merlot.
Our taste buds agree that this wine goes great with beef and venison. It’s rich and intense, making it perfect for a fancy dinner or when we’re just feelin’ a little extra. We’ve heard the 2018 vintage snagged a gold award at the Michelangelo International Wine & Spirits Awards, which is pretty cool.
Plus, the wine’s price won’t totally empty our wallets. We can usually find a bottle for under $40, depending on where we’re shopping. We love that it’s got a price tag that doesn’t sting, while still being a gold-medal winner. Cheers to that!
7) Vergelegen Reserve Merlot
Let’s dive into the world of Vergelegen Reserve Merlot, a true gem from South Africa’s wine country. These beauties grow in the historic vineyards of Somerset West. Vergelegen has been cranking out wine for over 320 years. Yep, that’s longer than we’ve been alive!
The 2017 Reserve Merlot is a favorite with its rich, dark garnet color. The aroma? Imagine ripe blackberries, plum, and even a whiff of tobacco if you’re feeling fancy. Chocolate and spice notes join in the fun, making it a party for your nose.
When we take a sip, we get medium to full body vibes with a smooth, silky texture. Its dark fruit flavors are out there, dominating the rest, but subtle oaky touches and smooth tannins make it a well-rounded experience. It’s like a cozy sweater in a bottle.
With prices hovering around $20, it’s not gonna break the bank, but it’ll still feel like we’re living that fancy wine life. Cheers to that!
8) Hamilton Russell Vineyards Chardonnay
Alright, folks, let’s talk about one of our faves from down south: the Hamilton Russell Vineyards Chardonnay. Nestled in the beautiful Hemel-en-Aarde Valley of South Africa, this wine is just a short trip from the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean. You could say it’s practically on vacation itself!
What really steals the show here is the wine’s mix of flavors. We’re talking peaches, pears, hazelnuts, and a hint of brown spice. It’s like a fruit basket with a twist! The wine’s balanced touch makes it both firm and detailed, which means it knows how to keep things interesting.
Now, we can’t forget about that minerally vibe. There’s a crisp feel to each sip, with a natural acid finish that makes the pear flavors come alive. It’s tight and polished, just the way we like it. You might notice its complex character—don’t worry, it won’t quiz you on it.
Oh, and a little fun fact: it’s made just two miles from the ocean. We’re thinking it may have splashed in the waves a few times, which is probably why it’s so refreshing!
9) Boekenhoutskloof The Chocolate Block
So, let’s dive into one of our favorites: Boekenhoutskloof The Chocolate Block. Yep, that’s the real name, and it sounds as tasty as it is. We’ve got South Africa to thank for this, and it’s one of those wines that makes you go, “Heck yeah!”
What makes this red blend so special is the mix of grapes like Syrah, Grenache, and Cabernet Sauvignon, with a little Cinsault and Viognier thrown in. This creates a bold and full-bodied wine that’s brimming with smoky flavors and dark fruit goodness.
One sip, and you might get hit with tastes of dark cherries, plums, and a sneaky hint of chocolate. It’s a bit like someone packed a tiny party into your glass. For those who dig vegan-friendly wines, this ticks that box too, so everyone’s invited.
If you’re shopping around, keep an eye out for the 2020 vintage. It’s got a great rep and lots of fans. Well, it’s pretty hard to beat when it’s been called one of the top South African reds around. We say grab a bottle and give it a whirl!
10) Rustenberg Stellenbosch Sauvignon Blanc
Alright, folks, let’s talk about the Rustenberg Stellenbosch Sauvignon Blanc. This is one of those wines that makes you go, “Wow, South Africa really knows its stuff!”
Picture a crisp bottle of wine that greets us with fresh flavors like green pepper and gooseberry. It also has a nice richness that doesn’t even need oak to shine.
The Stellenbosch region is like the cool kid in school when it comes to making Sauvignon Blanc. This wine is a perfect example of why! Its refreshing taste and mouthwatering acidity make it hard to stop at just one glass.
Rustenberg does an awesome job of showing what Sauvignon Blanc is all about. Whether we’re sipping it on a sunny afternoon or busting it out for a fancy dinner, it never disappoints.
History of South African Wines
We’re diving into the story of South African wines, starting from its early roots in the 17th century right through to modern times. We’ve got tales of Dutch settlers, epic struggles, and triumphs over adversity.
The Birth of Viticulture in South Africa
Let’s go back to the 1650s when Dutch settlers rolled up in the Cape of Good Hope. They had one goal: grow vines and make some vino. Jan van Riebeeck, our main man from the Dutch East India Company, kicked things off by planting the first vineyard. His mission? Keep sailors from losing their minds on long sea voyages by supplying ’em with wine.
Soon, the region became a key spot for growing grapes. By the 18th century, wines from the Cape were getting popular in Europe. Europe couldn’t get enough of that South African flavor, and neither could we!
Post-Apartheid Wine Renaissance
Fast forward to the end of apartheid in the 1990s, and South African wine got a major boost. With sanctions lifted, we hopped right onto the global wine stage. The wine folk knew this was their moment, so they started experimenting with new styles and grapes.
The result? Wines that impressed everyone. Pinotage, a grape unique to South Africa, became a big hit. We also got a bunch of awards and recognition for our wines, making it clear South Africa wasn’t just another spot in the New World of wine. We’re here to stay, baby!
Unique Grape Varieties
When it comes to South African wines, some grape varieties stand out as true originals. We’re gonna dive deep into Pinotage, a grape that wears the South African flag like a cape. And then there are other gems that deserve a spotlight too.
Pinotage – South Africa’s Signature
Alright, let’s talk about Pinotage. This grape is the love child of Pinot Noir and Cinsaut, thanks to Professor Abraham Perold, who literally created it in 1925. Seriously, how cool is that? It’s got the best of both parents, offering complex flavors that can be fruity and earthy at the same time.
Pinotage is as South African as a lion wearing sunglasses. It’s often crafted into the famous “Cape blend,” which makes use of the grape’s distinct taste to elevate the wine game. You’ll get rich, bold flavors that might remind you of dark berries or even hints of chocolate. Pairs great with braai, by the way.
Other Noteworthy Varietals
Now for the other players in the game. Chenin Blanc, although it originated in France, has found a second home here. It’s super versatile and can be both sweet and dry. Think of it as the chameleon of wines.
Then there’s Cabernet Sauvignon, part of the big six of South African wines. It’s another heavy hitter, known for strong, rich flavors.
And let’s not forget Shiraz and Merlot, both bringing their own flair to the wine scene. Each grape adds a unique twist to our wine story, making every glass a thrilling adventure.
