What examples of great craftsmanship can be seen in the wines on offer at the chef’s table?
In our chef’s table experience, we showcase great South African wines which display incredible craftsmanship in world-class styles and quality from local estates such as Alheit Vineyards, Rall, Lukas van Loggerenberg, Saurwein, Klein Constantia Estate, Jordan Estate, Cederberg and Vilafonte.
There has been a steady decline in sales of wines. Is this a good time for a connoisseur to start buying?
It’s a buyers market, as wine consumption has been declining not only in South Africa but globally. Some incredible bargains can be found as long as one follows the right wine expert with a deep knowledge of the wine industry.
What are three things everyone should consider before buying a wine?
Quality inside a bottle versus the brand perception the wine farm’s marketing team want you to believe. Wine is about emotion and has nothing to do with fancy labels or heavy bottles.Consider producers who work in symbiosis with nature, practise ethical and sustainable ways of growing grapes and produce less manipulated wines in the cellar.Seek producers, especially emerging ones, who have a story behind their wines. The storytelling aspects of wine appreciation far outweigh a commercial wine brand with trumpeter stories about their provenance.
What can wine lovers expect in the coming year for locally produced vino?
We are all fortunate to live during a time of South African wine greatness never seen before, largely driven by a young generation of winemakers pushing the boundaries of excellence and crafting some of the finest wines in the world, which will continue for many years to come. Wine lovers are spoilt for choice.
Dining and Cooking