World Class Wine from World Cup Territory
January 24, 2010 by Ivy Kupec
Filed under Monthly newsletter, News Release, Sean Chaudhry
Whether you haven’t given a thought to World Cup 2010 or have monogrammed underwear for the US team or some other personal favorite, it’s the perfect time to pay tribute to South Africa, host of this year’s games and home to some of the world’s finest wineries.
South Africa, which has been producing wine since the 1600s mostly for domestic use, has gradually gained worldwide attention, and the heart of its wine industry lies in Stellenbosch. With its Mediterranean climate of hot, arid summers and crisp, wet winters, Stellenbosch winemakers were initially known for luscious Cabernets and region-unique Pinotage blends, but now their whites are also drawing fans. With the Cape Fold mountain range nearby and a wide range of soils, Stellenbosch has developed quite a following among wine lovers. Soccer fan or not, this month’s Club wines are definitely something to cheer about.
Vinum Africa 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon, Stellenbosch
For wine with a hands-on appeal, one need look no further than Vinum Africa, which picks and sorts all of its grapes by hand. Aged partially in French and American oak barrels, the Cabernet develops a deep, vibrant cherry red that’s fruit-forward and very drinkable. Think Old World Cabernet structure mixed with New World flavors. Rich, spicy and inviting aromas introduce a palate that is layered and generous. The oak influence compliments, rather than takes over, producing natural fruit components and flavors of cigar box, blueberry, spice, cherry, currant and mocha. The finish has a fresh note of minerality, making it overall a wine that is lovely by itself or equally satisfying with a succulent steak or other hearty meal.
Vinum Africa 2008 Chenin Blanc, Stellenbosch
Here is a Chenin Blanc that consistently gets great mentions because of its unusual elegance. Chenin Blanc makes up approximately one-fifth of the grapes grown in South Africa, and Vinum Africa has made it a mission to showcase this grape at its best. The nose reveals white petals and citrus crispness mixed with light vanilla and
cinnamon. The palate offers more layering with bright lime and gentle spices that brings to mind a lingering intensity of fruit and finishes with a mineral resonance. If you are less familiar with Chenin Blanc, this is a wonderful example of its complexity as well as its versatility. Because of its citrus tones, this wine goes perfectly with seafood, but is also a good match with other white-wine foods. Chenin Blanc is good now, but also ages well, too.
