LCBO Vintages is featuring South Africa this month so it’s an opportunity to experience some delights from the oldest “˜undiscovered’ wine region in the world. With so many countries producing fantastic wines today it’s only natural for most to narrow the field to two or three countries ““ and South Africa is usually not one of them. I won’t go into all the whys, but distance, unsettling history, and slim pickings at the LCBO certainly contribute. However, ask anyone who has visited, and you’re likely to be hear “most beautiful wine country ever”. A visit to South Africa is a must to have on your bucket list.
My pick of the Vintages offering is a Shiraz from the most southerly winery in Africa ““ a place called Cape Agulhas which is as wild and windswept as Newfoundland. Forget any likeness to most Shiraz, this wine is lightish and lively with the white pepper personality of Syrah wines from the Rhone in France. Lightly chill and drink with white meats.
P.S. I find a Euro flavor not only in the wines, but in the overall aesthetic of South Africa. So many charming places. ~
STRANDVELD 16 Shiraz “˜First Sighting’, Cape Agulhas, South Africa 652693 Vintages $14.95
