Paarl Heights Shiraz, South Africa, £6.33 (on offer), M&S
I mentioned last week about South African winemakers producing an abundance of world-class wines – they are gaining popularity around the world and they offer high quality at affordable prices. The unique adaptability and versatility of South African wines make them a match with a range of food or simply on their own by the glass – this has been key to their success. This fine example is a ripe and juicy Shiraz, packed with dark berry aromas and whiffs of smokiness.
Cimarosa South African Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon, £4.25, Lidl
This one’s not an IWC medal winner but it’s a great South African wine at the price – especially for those on a budget after Christmas. Blends of Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes are very popular, with the former giving spice flavours to balance the dark fruits of Cabernet. Juicy, clean and vibrant with raspberry-scented
fruit. At 14 per cent it packs a punch – serve it with cottage pie or chilli con carne on cold January nights.
WINE OF THE WEEK
McGuigan Shortlist Chardonnay, Australia, currently reduced to £13 from £15, Sainsbury’s
Winemakers Down Under have been working hard to prove the elegance of Chardonnay and finished with eight gold medals in the International Wine Challenge awards. This high scoring wine is a modern style of Chardonnay with lemon, honey and stonefruit aromas with delicate cedar notes. The palate has a zingy fruit profile which balances its full-body, vanilla notes and rich mouthfeel.
