Cape Wine got underway with a big party, held on the waterfront on a beautiful spring evening. It was a jolly affair, kicking off with a couple of glasses of bubbly, and then with a series of stands offering wines by theme as well as small plates of nice food.
As it was primarily a social occasion, I didn’t taste formally. But I did drink quite a few wines as I was chatting, and they deserve a mention.
Kloof Street red 2011 from Mullineux in the Swartland is deliciously focused and drinkable. It’s the best Kloof street yet, with elegance and a bit of meaty savouriness. I had a few glasses of this. (Small pours, of course!)
Reyneke Reserve Red 2009 is one of my favourite South African reds. Taut, fine, dark and brooding with tremendous potential.
I enjoyed Kanonkop Pinotage 2009, which is a fine example of this variety. Newton Johnson Pinot Noir 2009 is lovely, too: it’s pale in colour and remarkably elegant. A real steop up from previous vintages. The Pinot Noir stand was rammed. Lots of people seem to be interested in this variety.
Eagles Nest Shiraz 2010 is ripe, sleek and delicious. Chamonix Chardonnay is one of South Africa’s best, I reckon. And finally the Lammershoek Roulette red 2010 is quite meaty and a bit animal with a lovely savoury core to the dark fruits.
Among the many folks I chatted to were Duncan Savage, Amy Matthews, Kari Garrido, Justin Howard-Sneyd, Jo Locke, Mike Ratcliffe, Christian Eades and Angela Lloyd. And many more. It was a great evening.
3 Comments on Cape Wine, the Green Tie party
Perhaps an unfortunate coincidence, but couldn’t help but notice in the photos below just white faces (winemakers, journos, etc.) whereas in this one, those serving are all black faces. Would be nice to hear your views on integration in the new South African wine scene sometime.
@Damien – I also attended the party and can honestly say the photos are an unfortunate coincidence. The party was a genuine cosmopolitan affair. People from all over the world attended and were served by South Africans. We’re a multi cultured lot and every colour of the rainbow helped make the event a fantastic experience.
Just came across your blog when I was looking for interesting wine blogs. I’m enjoying it! Safe travels in SA! Looks like a great time.
— Kristy @ Wine Logic