‘South Africa is the most
exciting country in the southern hemisphere,’ maintains
Neal Martin of Robert
Parker’s Wine Advocate, echoing the sentiments he expressed
earlier this year. In his newly released South Africa report, which covers more
than 600 wines, Martin reaffirms that SA's transition is well underway.
Positive shifts in winemaking and viticulture, and a new generation of ballsy
(and bearded) young winemakers, are producing Old-World-inspired wines that are both elegant and pure –
wines that sing their own song and reflect their unique terroir.
On the red front, Rhône blends are ‘streets ahead’
and ‘South Africa’s strongest
card,’ says Martin. ‘Wake up, those who think great Syrah only comes from the hill in
Hermitage or California.’
He also underscores Chenin Blanc’s potential to create
world-class wines with real personality. ‘Chenin Blanc should be the country’s signature grape variety,’ he
suggests, citing Eben Sadie’s Palladius as well as his Old Vine Series releases
as some of the most spellbinding examples.
Barrel-fermented Sauvignon-led whites have been hugely praised, with
wines from Flagstone, Reyneke, Cape Point Vineyards and Tokara all receiving massive
scores.
For
a list of the top-scoring wines, along withselect others, visit www.winecellarplus.co.za.
About Wine Cellar - Fine Wine Merchants and Cellarers
Wine Cellar is a leading merchant and one of South Africa's foremost importers of fine wine. While the company specialises in the wines of France, Italy, Spain and elsewhere, they also offer fine local wines at competitive prices. For more information, visit www.winecellar.co.za.