For many people, the Easter weekend is a time to gorge on hot cross buns and chocolate. Personally, I choose to forsake those in favour of drinking lovely wines and enjoying a braai or two.

Because this time of year has notoriously unpredictable weather (and because I’ll be on the West Coast, which takes wind and temperatures to new extremes), I plan to savour a stash of wines that will suit any atmospheric condition.

If it’s a bit cool: Lomond SMV 2013

This Rhône-inspired red hails from the cool coastal Gansbaai region and it’s definitely worth giving it a bash. Consisting of 72% Shiraz, 12% Mourvèdre and 6% Viognier, it’s got a satisfying level of spiciness without being too heavy. The SMV picked up two Veritas awards nogal, so it’s one to watch. I love the silky smoothness and could easily crack open a bottle with either lunch or dinner (ideally slightly chilled).

Price: About R115.00 a bottle

 

If it’s nice and warm: Cederberg Sustainable Rose 2014

Now, I know that I’ve reviewed this one before, but the 2014 vintage is so damn good that I have to mention it again. This is my all time favourite rosé and with good reason: creamy strawberry, summery flavours, yet gorgeously dry and crisp. There is simply nothing more lovely than pouring a glass, sitting in the sunshine and attempting to salvage a fading summer tan.

Price: From R54.00 a bottle

 

For ANY situation: Miss Molly Bubbly MCC

I never need an excuse to drink bubbles (they should be a part of any balanced diet). The fact that this bubbly costs only R71.00 a bottle makes it even easier to justify my decadent tendencies. Before you get nervous about paying such a reasonable price for some fizzy goodness, don’t fret – it’s not sweet. In fact, it’s produced by Moreson in Franschhoek and is named after the owner’s much-loved Weimaraner. Miss Molly is 100% Chardonnay and offers more-ish flavours of citrus and biscuit. Excellent, mind boggling value.

Price: From R71.00 a bottle

[Category: Bubbly, Red blends, Rosé, Cederberg, Lomond, Moreson]