In a nutshell.......

That is it, already to weeks that I'm back from South Africa and its winelands !

Back to work as well and back to the taste of french wines that strange enough I did'nt miss that much.

Back to Poule au pot and andouillette that I probably missed more.

Back to traffic jam and stuffed parisian tube !

A great experience of three weeks and more than 70 producers tasted gave me a great overall impression of south african vineyards.

It's about the best balanced wines I taste so far among these "New World" producers, and Australia or Chili are no match for the quality around here.

Here is a short sum up :

South Africa do have a great potential but needs to get older virus free vineyards and time to associate soils and areas to grapes.

Mistakes such as overoakiness, concontration caused by late harvest and fruit bomb have to be avoid to progress. Wine Spectator, Rob Parker and Platter's are just humans and not gods.

Blends are the best so far cause by blending you just avoid the youth of your material. Some stunning Bordeaux blend from Stellenbosch and Rhone one from Swartland are already bench mark.

Trade needs to be regulated (WO isn't use at all!)and promoted so that south african wines will be more represented abroad, especially in Europe and States. I believe next year World Cup will also improve thing greatly and exports will burst.

The average price per bottle on export market needs to increased, so that higher end wines will also be available on our shelves.

Pinotage is not yet as good as it should and trial still have to be made to learn more about this hardly understandable varieties. Then it may become South Africa varietal such as Malbec in Argentina or Sauvignon Blanc in new Zealand.

First market should focus with on such varietals as cool climate Sauvignon Blanc, rewarding and decently oaked Chenin Blanc, and seductively charming Cab Sauv from Stellenbosch.
Then in few years time, such grapes as Syrah, Pinotage and perhaps Mourvedre will have the lead.

It all in your hands, and I will be very pleased to come back here, why not for the w
Word Cup !

Cheers.

Benjamin