There's no better time to celebrate and promote South African wines than now!
As our dear CR tries to manage a very difficult pandemic - a job I would't want for all the Sauvignon Blanc in the world - we as wine lovers must do our bit to support the industry-at-large.
On this glorious summer's day, in the picturesque Overberg; we find ourselves facing a beautiful Chenin Blanc: Druk My Niet's C68 2020. This neatly packaged gem hails from the Boland region. This 24ha boutique winery prides itself in the use of environmentally friendly methods throughout the process. And what a fine job they're doing.
Of course it might seem to you, the generous reader, that waxing lyrical about any other grape varietal than Sauvignon Blanc might be a frightfully tedious and insincere affair from me. Not at all. This zingy, joyful bundle of Chenin Blanc is not only a great food wine but I can see it making the perfect all summer drink. From it's ripe citrus nose, to the delightfully silky palate, you'll find that every sip demands another!
With this fresh little number we have enjoyed a variety of seafood creations which have showcased the great offering from this beautiful coastline.
The first of which was a triumphant, if slightly ostentatious paella. Delicately perfumed with saffron and injected with the punch of fresh black mussels and juicy prawns. Of course crowned with the quartet of hand-caught crayfish. All lovingly cooked on carefully monitored coals, adding that hint of smokiness to the finished product. The C68 was the perfect co-star.
It seemed fitting, therefore that the following night we should indulge in yet more of the fare from the sea. And since the C68 still beckoned us from the depths of the fridge, we obliged. Only this time simplicity of flavour was called for. Moules Marinière is one of those dishes which makes your heart sing and the day's catch of mussels was particularly impressive. All in all, it's been a coupe of days of sheer joy. And I'm grateful for this introduction to Druk My Niet's little gem. Those old bush vines are telling great stories and long may they continue.
So dear CR, we see what you're trying to do and we support you. Ours is also to be conscious one of the industries most affected by this pandemic, and since we can't carry on as usual, let's support how and where we can. Start by opening that bottle of South African wine and making sure to order the next so that when we bid farewell to prohibition, those wine estates will be very busy delivering all over the country.
May this year be filled with more kindness. Be gentle on yourselves and keep pushing on!
A very proudly South African cheers to you!
Comments