March Featured Wine

We came upon the scrumptious 2007 Rietvallei Estate Wine, Robertson Shiraz while in South Africa. Shiraz is fast becoming one of that country’s leading red varietals. Its spicy berry fruits will convert even the most devout Aussie Shiraz lover.

This premium estate wine expresses all the smoky and spicy you’ve come to expect from South African Shiraz. Delightful blackberry, cassis and violet flavors combine with notes of black pepper and graphite. A fine expression of Shiraz.

Watch out Australia.
There’s another champ at producing your beloved Shiraz!

South Africa may seem like a new player in the wine world, but don’t be fooled. Yes. Because of apartheid, South African wines were unavailable throughout much of the rest of the world until trade sanctions were lifted in 1991. However, with its perfect terroir (growing conditions), the country is capable of producing a wide range of wines. In a stunning turnaround, South Africa’s wine industry is one of the primary beneficiaries of the multi-racial democracy that has prevailed since 1994, so that it is now amongst the world’s top 10 wine producers.

Up until the early 90’s red wines here were dominated by Bordeaux varieties. However, Shiraz is fast becoming one of the country’s leading red varieties. South Africans have learned that Shiraz, a Mediterranean varietal, is incredibly well suited to the Robertson region of South Africa as it likes warm climates. Experience South Africa’s take on the grape with the 2007 Rietvallei Estate Wine, Robertson Shiraz, South Africa (SOA363).

This South African red derives from one of the oldest wine farms in the Robertson region. Many excellent estates are located in this hot, dry region in the West Cape—including Rietvallei, a family-owned estate that has been crafting outstanding wines since 1864. Today the fifth and sixth generations of the Burger family actively run the estate.

An exotic nose of spicy fine berry fruits leads to a concentrated palate showing seductive rich chocolatey fruit. Intense ruby red colored and complex flavored with fruit and well-integrated peppery, spicy toasted oak flavors. A full-bodied wine with pleasant ripe tannins and a smooth lingering aftertaste. Sample it for a remarkable South African Shiraz at a price that can easily compete with its Southern Aussie counterparts. It will easily win over even the most devout fans of the robust Down Under varietal.

Gold, Exceptional, Best Buy, 2010 World Wine Competition

"Deep garnet violet color. Aromas of cherry creme brulee, nuts, minerals, and delicate herbs follow through on a supple entry to a fruity-yet-dry medium body with very good depth and smoothness. Finishes with a hint of roasted pepper, spice, and chewy balanced tannins. Very nicely styled; pair with pork tenderloins."
 

Tasting Notes

This wine is unbeatable for taming grilled meat. It’s also a delicious pairing with calzone or mushroom and red pepper pizza.

Awards

Gold, Exceptional, Best Buy, 2010 World Wine Competition

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