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White Wine for Brighter Days Ahead

The past month has been a tough one. Although our livers are probably thanking us for the reprieve, if you own a restaurant, winery, brewery, distillery, or anything in between, it has meant the dread of reduced income and lost jobs.

For those of you who rushed to the aid of businesses that were hit hard by lockdown restrictions, I thank you. In the spirit of support, I thought I would touch on a range of different wines that have been on my radar recently. My selection is admittedly skewed towards whites rather than rosés and reds, but considering the slew of warmer days we have experienced in the Cape recently, perhaps this is merited. 

I was introduced to the Van Loveren Neil’s Pick Colombar while on holiday two years ago, and I cannot believe it has taken me so long to write about this delicious white. It is a stunningly light, off-dry wine which boasts aromas of guava and a hint of fresh clementines. Absolutely delicious on a warm day with a cheese and charcuterie board. And the price is very pleasing too. I sometimes feel that many really good wines are dismissed by wine snobs simply because they don’t cost an arm and a leg. Well, this wine costs R59 and is not to be passed up. 

The Piekeneirskloof Heirloom White was a recent discovery and a lovely treat. The grapes are sourced from bush vines grown in vineyards tended with the utmost care. The grapes used for this blend (60% Chenin Blanc, 30% Grenache Blanc, 10% Chardonnay) are all hand harvested from middle to late February. Only free run juice is used and fermented in first and second fill French and American oak barrels for four months. On the palate, fresh white peaches and pears lingering to a gentle oak finish. Paired perfectly with crispy Cape Bream and a fresh Asian slaw. Heaven. 

Peter Falke is a boutique winery nestled between Stellenbosch and Somerset West. They boast two impressive wine collections and a beautiful tasting room. The perfect location for a day out in the winelands. We chose to share a few bottles of wine while reclining on their extremely comfortable beanbags. The wine of particular interest was the PF Sauvignon Blanc 2020. It has been a while since I enjoyed a good Sauvignon Blanc, but this one was delightful. Aromas of tropical fruit such as granadilla and pineapple followed by a lingering finish of fresh lemongrass. I highly recommend that you enjoy this wine in the company of friends on a warm day, preferably with a beanbag nearby for good cushioning. 

Price list:

Van Loveren Neil’s Pick Colombar 2020 – R59 @ their cellar or online 

Piekenierskloof Heirloom White Blend 2020 – R150 @ their cellar or online 

Peter Falke PF Sauvignon Blanc 2020 – R150 @ their cellar or online