Well, it’s been a while! So without further ado, let me rave about two reds that I can’t keep my mitts off.
Like many wine lovers, I’ve found myself drinking more red wine during the colder Winter months. Heater on full blast? Check. Cat forced to snuggle? Check. Fat glass of red to warm my tortured soul? Check.
That said, at times I miss the lightness and accessibility of white wine. I’m not always in the mood for reds so heavy that each sip feels like I’m being smacked in the face by a ten foot barge pole (not that I’ve ever experienced that).
The answer? Embrace lighter reds! Pinot Noir, Sangiovese, Cinsault… There are numerous fantastic options available to suit every budget. Instead of heavy tannins and heady intensity, you’ll discover a lighter, fruitier world of goodness. Here are two that I find quite fabulous.
Terra del Capo Sangiovese 2013
This Sangiovese is a current favourite of mine. If you’re unacquainted with this Italian grape, do yourself a favour and try a bottle of this light, soft and succulent red by Anthonij Rupert. Lovely fruitiness and very drinkable.
Price: Around R90 a bottle
Blackwater Hinterland Cinsault 2014
If you want to show off to South African wine aficionados, tell them that you’re into Cinsault. It’s seriously trendy at the moment, with several boutique wineries creating some interesting vintages from old vines in areas such as the Swartland.
Cinsault was once a very common crop in South Africa known as Hermitage. In 1925 a dude called Abraham Izak Perold crossed it with Pinot Noir and boom! Pinotage was invented.
After many years of neglect in South Africa, winemakers are embracing Cinsault’s lovely qualities: it’s a lighter, aromatic red that is known for its fruitiness and low tannin.
The Blackwater Hinterland Cinsaut 2014 is a fine example of how exciting the new generation of South African Cinsault can be. It’s light but not shy on flavour, with pure, delicate tannins.
Price: Around R220 a bottle
Drawing by Doodlemum.Â
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