While South African wines are enjoying some long-overdue recognition in the wine world, most of them remain virtually unknown to the casual wine drinker. But whenever a wine flies under the radar screen, value hunters should take a closer look. In the case of South African wines, you can find distinguished sips at bargain prices. Winemakers are doing great things with Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, and Shiraz – all perfect patio sips as barbecue season hits full swing. And as the hot days of July lead into the hotter days of August, you’ll really appreciate the whites on sticky evenings when it’s too hot to think about firing up the grill. That’s when a salad and one of these bright, refreshing wines will be just the ticket.
What’s even better is that South Africa is considered part of the New World, and so bottles are labeled by varietal. Despite labeling practices, South African wines lean more towards Europe and the Old World when it comes to style which translates into wines elegant in fruit and oak and not heavily fruit-forward or overly oaky. Also, reading the label’s fine print can pay off; regions to look for include Stellenbosch, Paarl, and Constantia.
If you’ve ever tasted a flat and seemingly boring Chenin Blanc and said “not for me,” you should give this grape another go in its South African style. While these bottles offer plentiful melon and tropical fruit flavors, their underlying mineral notes add sophistication. Lively and refreshing, they’ll go well with fish on the grill, especially if it’s sparked with a little lemon and herbs. This wine will also make a lovely aperitif to sip before dinner with a few nibbles – may I suggest pairing a glass with slices of melon wrapped in thin slices of prosciutto.
Although Chenin Blanc is historically the white-wine grape of South Africa, it’s the country’s Sauvignon Blancs that are especially making a splash among the world’s wine lovers. Winemakers are producing bottles that brim with lively herb and citrus notes and are more easygoing than all-out zippy New Zealand Sauvignon Blancs. More lively than French versions from Sancerre and Pouilly-Fume, South African Sauvignon Blancs offer a great balance of acidity and fruit. For a sublime summer pairing, grill up a colorful array of summer vegetables to serve alongside a fresh Caesar or tomato salad, a selection of cheeses (goat cheese and Gruyere will go especially well with Sauvignon Blanc), and plenty of crusty French bread.
As for reds, South African Shiraz is on the march with vineyards producing wine with beautiful dark-fruit qualities, plus hints of chocolate, spice, and a warm, earthy appeal. Yes, you get a lot of bang for your buck with these bottles. And just as South African Sauvignon Blanc can offer a refreshing break from New Zealand versions, South African Shiraz is a fine addition to your usual selection of Australian Shiraz. It won’t have the spice you’re used to, but these wines are great with burgers, chops, sausages, and steaks hot off the grill. The wine meshes especially well with anything flavored with garlic, onions, and just about any herb seasoning.
