Blossoms, slightly warmer evenings and mornings that don’t remain dark as long as they used to…I think we’re moving into Spring people! To celebrate, I’ve packed my wine fridges with some yummy tipples that I think are perfect for the change in season.
Charles Fox Brut Rose
Pop the fox! There is a beautiful magic to Charles Fox MCC that has been riveting drinkers since 2012 and for good reason. There are currently (not including those sold out) three delicious bubblies in their range and it was difficult for me to pick just one for perpetual drinking, but the color, cherry nose and finesse of this pretty wonder made it my top pick.
This Brut Rose is extraordinary in its complex flavours and lingering finish. Baked apples and vanilla bean custard are just some of the aromas I get on the nose and palate.
Retail Price: R240 | For more details, visit their website
De Wetshof Limestone Hill Unwooded Chardonnay
There might be a few Chard O naysayers left but I’m firmly a Chard O yay kinda girl, be it wooded or unwooded but for Spring, this is the bottle for me.
The De Wetshof family have been making Chardonnay since the 80’s and their wines are greatly admired. It’s usually their wooded Chardonnays that I reach for but the fresh green apples, light citrus and pineapple aromas make their Limestone Hill a stellar companion for drinking in the sunshine. It’s un-heavy, yet rich with flavour and fabulous with sushi.
Retail Price: R80 | For more details, visit their website
Haute Cabriere Chardonnay/Pinot Noir
Haute Cabriere were the first winery to truly dedicate itself to making Chardonnay/Pinot Noir and their strength is that they are fully focused on its production – respect of the blend is key for Cellar Master Takuan von Arnim and the blend never leaves the cellar until Takuan is 110% happy with it.
As the majority of the blend is Chardonnay, white peach and citrus characteristics are evident yet the Pinot Noir offers soft red berry nuances. It’s crisp, but won’t make red-wine drinkers run for cover. It’s a great food wine and a bottle that you can take anywhere.
Retail Price R85 | For more details, visit their website
Boland Cellar Five Climates Chenin Blanc
Chenin is such a charmer. She’s irresistibly easy-going and performs in rich, creamy abundance or fruity liveliness. Boland Cellar have managed to capture most of her compelling charms in their range of Chenin Blancs but their Five Climates Chenin Blanc 2016 is my faithful. It’s not an expensive wine, but it’s a goodie.
It’s so ridiculously fruity and full; a joyful little number that can be enjoyed over and over again. Plus, it sells for around R35 a bottle! Your Spring drinking needs this!
Retail Price: R35 | For more details, visit their website
Babylonstoren Rose
The hanging gardens of Babylon were one the seven ancient wonders of the world and sadly nothing remains of their beauty…but that’s okay, because Babylonstoren has beauty in abundance.
Immense changes have happened on this winery/garden/paradise and I happily sipped on their 100% Mouverdre Rose in their glass tasting room the other day and was very happy. This is a great Spring wine with focused strawberry aromas (for me, it’s almost like strawberry yogurt) – It’s not insipid but finishes dry and clean with floral notes and good acidity.
Retail Price: R97 | For more details, visit their website
All photos (except the top image) are my own
All views are based on enjoying these wines in the glorious sunshine
2 Comments
Strawberry yogurt you say? Hmm, must give it a try!
I love Charles Fox Bubbly and their tasting room is stunning!