Though no slouch in the unique grape varieties or colourful winemaking characters departments, South African wines still get the short end of the corkscrew from consumers.
Some of it is South Africa’s fault (it never put forward a public personality for its wines) and some is Canadian wine buyers’ fault (who talk a good game about wanting wines with personality then turn their noses up at anything that isn’t from mass market).
The vineyards around Cape Town are arguably the most beautiful in the world, producing classically South African fruit in the form of chenin blanc and pinotage as well as familiar grapes like shiraz and sauvignon blanc.
If you’re intrigued but still scared of drinking outside your comfort zone, South Africa is the new home of the most popular white grape on the liquor landscape: Pinot Grigio.
The 2011 Flat Roof Manor Pinot Grigio ($10.95 – $12.99) is a grape-forward PG from Stellenbosch with a modern look and hint of tropical fruit that matches creamy pasta sauces.
Prices reflect the range across Canada. Some products may not be available in all provinces.
