Wine

The Winelands of the Western Cape in South Africa are a huge draw for national and international visitors alike, for the wine tasting certainly, but also for the spectacular beauty, rich history and gastronomic excellence.

Committed to providing our visitors with the latest news and insights, we are constantly visiting wine estates and trying wines, to ensure we can share with you some of our favourites. Each month we feature a wine or wine estate that we love - it's a tough job but someone has to do it.

Our Favourite Wine of the month

October 2009: Sterhuis 2006 Astra White- Stellenbosch

The John Platter Wine Guide awarded 5 stars to the 2006 Astra white blend from this small boutique winery, which makes it one of the select band of highest ranking white wine in South Africa.

When I read this I wanted to know more, so I rang wine maker Johan Kruger who invited me round for a personal tasting. And what a tasting it was! When I arrived we jumped in his bakkie with a couple of bottles and he drove me up the steep slopes of the vineyards to the highest point of the farm, with stunning 360 degree views of Table Mountain, Cape Point, False Bay and the 12 Apostles in the distance.

A great setting, engaging company and an excellent white blend of Chardonnay, Chenin and Sauvignon Blanc that undoubtedly deserves all the accolades it receives. A better wine tasting experience I have yet to encounter.

Only a few weeks later did I find out that Johan was nominated Diners Club "Young Winemaker of the Year" back in 2006, after tasting his wine it came as no surprise.

We also highly recommend the Astra Red Blend and Johan is very sweet on his soon to be released Chardonnay.

Comments

Our recent favourite wine of the month