As an artist constantly seeking inspiration, I find myself drawn to the unique and unexpected. This pursuit led me on a virtual journey to South Africa, a land known for its breathtaking landscapes and, surprisingly, its exceptional wines. Having explored various art forms over the years, I approached this tasting with a fresh perspective, eager to uncover the artistry behind South African viticulture.
A Tapestry of Terroir: Exploring South Africa’s Wine Regions
My journey began with a virtual tasting hosted by the wine connoisseurs at Snooth, featuring Mark Angelillo, CEO of Snooth, and Jim Clarke, the voice of Wines of South Africa in the US. This wasn’t just another tasting for me. Inspired by a friend who had recently moved to South Africa, I was eager to experience the country’s vibrant spirit through its wines.
While I appreciated South African wines for their value and food-friendliness, my knowledge was limited to a few varietals. Jim enlightened us on the country’s rich winemaking history, dating back to the 17th century, and the diverse terroirs that shape its wines.
The Western Cape, with its six main regions – Breede River Valley, Cape South Coast, Coastal Region, Klein Karoo, Olifants River, and Boberg – boasts a mosaic of microclimates and soil types. From the mountainous Elgin Valley to the sun-drenched vineyards of Stellenbosch, each region imparts a unique character to its wines.
A Symphony of Flavors: Tasting Through South Africa’s White Wines
Our tasting focused on a selection of captivating white wines that showcased the diversity of South African terroir:
1. 2014 Thelema Mountain Vineyards Sutherland Sauvignon Blanc (Elgin): This wine was a burst of freshness, with vibrant citrus and tropical fruit notes, complemented by a distinct minerality characteristic of the Elgin region.
2. 2016 Glenelly Glass Collection Unoaked Chardonnay (Stellenbosch): Hailing from the esteemed Stellenbosch region, this Chardonnay surprised me with its elegance and complexity. The cool climate and granite soils shone through in the wine’s citrus, stone fruit, and ginger notes.
3. 2016 De Wetshof Limestone Hill Chardonnay (Robertson Valley): The Robertson Valley, known for its limestone-rich soils, produced this age-worthy Chardonnay. Layers of apple, stone fruit, citrus, and almond flavors made it an ideal pairing for our multi-course meal.
4. 2016 The Wolftrap White (Franschhoek Valley): This delightful blend of Viognier, Chenin Blanc, and Grenache Blanc offered a refreshing expression of the Franschhoek Valley’s wild beauty. Aromas of white stone fruit, tropical fruits, and apple danced on the palate.
5. 2016 A.A. Badenhorst Secateurs Chenin Blanc (Swartland): Adi Badenhorst’s Chenin Blanc, crafted with a blend of Palomino and a “secret grape,” was a revelation. Honey, orange, stone fruit, floral, and mineral notes intertwined harmoniously, reflecting the unique terroir of the Swartland region.
6. 2016 Raats Original Chenin Blanc (Stellenbosch): This Chenin Blanc, made with grapes from 35-year-old vines, was a testament to the varietal’s potential in Stellenbosch. Tropical notes melded with vibrant citrus and the consistent minerality I found characteristic of South African Chenin Blancs.
The Art of Discovery: Embracing South African Wines
My virtual journey through South Africa’s winelands left me with a profound appreciation for the country’s winemaking prowess. The tasting was a masterclass in the art of blending terroir, grape varietals, and winemaking techniques to create wines that are both delicious and distinctive.
I encourage you to embark on your own South African wine adventure. Visit your local wine shop, explore the diverse varietals, and discover the hidden gems this captivating country has to offer.
What are your favorite South African wines? Share your discoveries in the comments below! And be sure to explore the unique, handcrafted gifts available on Robert Kline Art, perfect for complementing your next wine tasting experience.