Rainy Cape Town

Euphory about the weather of the first days is gone but when rain pour that's best time to taste wine !
More and more rain, more and more tasting so and also more and more good wines.
South Africa as defenitively a great potential.

Some tangy and grassy sauvignon from Constantia start to be the benchmark of the area, such as the ones from Steenberg or Klein Constantia ( the 2009 vintage is coming up on the market now).

The rich yet balanced cab sauv from Stellenbosch, so far the closest to Simonsberg the better, with a velvety 2001 Kanonkop, a intensely gamey Le Riche 2004 or an amazing suttle Thelema 2003.

Merlot approach so far a decent quality only in hands of Meerlust for example that as release a red currant driven 2005. But just to be sure I'm will visit the winery next Wednesday.

A special notes to Joostenberg Late Harvest Chenin 2007 that shines throught leather and honey so perfect with grilled Victoria pineaple infused with vanilla !

So Cheers.


Benjamin

First days in South Africa

Freshly arrived in Cape Town, with so far a quite warm summer compare to France, and 28°C.
Just out of the plane and tastings started.

First, yesterday with DGB Tasting in the Radisson Hotel with a looooooot of peoples but also some winemakers, new vintage such as several Sauvignon Blanc from 2009 (an announced good quality), and more classic Estates such as Kanonkop (2006 Paul Sauer and CS drinking very well) and Rustenberg with an impressive Chardonnay 2008.

Then the revamped range of Bellingham winery gave birth to a stunning Chenin Blanc and a juicy SMV blend that is promised to a bright future.

Still hoping to taste more shiraz/syrah but in three weeks it should be possible !

Some more news and tastings tomorrow.
Cheers.

Benjamin