Everyone who gets into wine eventually feels an itch to drink a truly great bottle. With more and more people discovering the pleasures of drinking wine the prices of fine wines continue to rise which means that most of us will never get to enjoy that desired bottle.

Luckily, Haskell Vineyards proofed that they understand the needs and dreams of the winelover with the release of the 2009 Haskell II. Retailing at R160, this rich red is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz. Compared to the Haskell Aeon (R290) and Haskell Pillars (R400), the Haskell II offers tremendous value for money. According to the winemaker, Rianie Strydom, the aim was to create a wine for those who want to have the Haskell experience but can’t necessarily afford it. This red blend is a wine full of the goodness of the Cape and excites the senses with a symphony of bouquets such as red fruits and almonds. The Shiraz component adds spiciness and the Cabernet Sauvignon lends richness to the wine.

White wine lovers should definitely try and get their hands on the Haskell Anvil 2010. This Chardonnay appears to be as fresh as a daisy! Citrus and a touch of caramel, a bit of toast and a nice, open aromatic profile characterize this single vineyard Chardonnay. The wine spend 11 months in oak of which 50% was new French oak. You’ll have to break the bank with this one however, as it retails at R290 a bottle.

The bad news is that Rianie decided not to bottle the 2008 vintages of the Aeon and Pillars this year. According to her the standard of the grapes used for these wines were not up to scratch this time around. Sad news indeed.

The good news is that the Haskell IV 2007 is still available at R400 a bottle which is a small price to pay for a wine that received raving reviews from Australian wine critic, Campbell Mattinson.

To taste the latest editions in the Haskell range visit their tasting room or book a lunch at the Long Table Restaurant and enjoy a glass or two with your meal.