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Some of my favourite things

I have a confession to make: I have not drunk a single bottle of wine this month. Shocking, I know. No, I have not been having an intentionally dry month. I simply haven’t gotten to the bottle store. It has been so cold my first thought at the end of the work day is to get home and into bed as fast as humanly possible. For the first time fluffy socks, pyjamas, soups, and mugs of tea have been infinitely higher on my priority list than good bottles of wine. But don’t worry, now is as good a time as ever to recap some firm favourites from over the years.

Let’s start off with the whites, in the hope we might just have a toasty day or two in the offing. Springfield Life from Stone Sauvignon Blanc is still as amazing and well priced as ever. I might have gone off Sauvignon Blanc in the last few years but I don’t think I will ever not enjoy this wine. Crisp, tangy and delicious, enjoy it chilled with fresh sushi and a view of the ocean.

Next up, the wine that has been mentioned more than any other in my column: the Darling Cellars Pyjama Bush Reserve Rosé. This is the best rosé at the most affordable price and I won’t ever shut up about it. Absolutely perfect for a Sunday braai, dinner with friends or and end of the month budget bottle of booze, this dry rosé is fresh with hints of grapefruit and Turkish delight. About a year ago I drank far too much of the stuff on what was supposed to be a relaxed evening with friends. Suffice to say it’ll be awhile until I can touch it again but I am still a firm advocate for anyone else who wants to enjoy a cheap and yummy glass of rosé.

Lastly, my new favourite and go-to bottle to grab this winter, or just when you are feeling like a red wine: the Barista Pinotage. Plums, blackberries and a hint of vanilla, at R89 a bottle this wine can do no wrong. I highly recommend it paired with something a little meaty and saucy; a spaghetti bolognaise or lamb stew with mashed potatoes are both great combinations.

These are my absolute must haves for the beginner wine rack and will ensure you have something for any occasion, whether it is a light lunch with friends, sundowners, or dinner around the fire.

Springfield Life from Stone Sauvignon Blanc retails for about R128 a bottle, Darling Cellars Pyjama Bush Reserve Rosé for about R55 and the Barista Pinotage at R89. All can be found at almost any reputable liquor store, including Pick n Pay liquor, Tops by Spar and Checkers.

Please drink responsibly. Alcohol sales to under-18s is illegal. Do not drink and drive.