One of the questions I get asked the most is which wine producing country I?enjoy visiting. Winemakers have a habit of growing their grapes in pretty interesting places, so it’s tough to answer.
I’ve had adventures in Italy, Spain, Argentina, California and, most recently, France. That said, my time in South Africa may have been the best combination of new and mind-blowing experiences.
Sadly, South African wines have been limping along in popularity over the last decade. Without a major powerhouse producer that draws people down its liquor store aisle on a regular basis, the selection across the country is best known as a population of individuality — where standalone wines with unique personalities and funky names rule.
Douglas Green’s 2010 The Beach House ($9.73 – $11.99) is a perfect example. A blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon, it’s a relaxed white with fresh gooseberry aromatics and a crisp backbone of green fruit massaged by subtle honeyed undertones that taste like liquid summer.
Prices reflect the range across Canada. Some products may not be available in all provinces.
