Margaret Swaine’s Wine Picks: South Africa

The LCBO has launched a four-week focus on South African wines, the first on this country in seven years. Find these value-priced picks via
WineAlign.com/MargaretsPicks.

Boekenhoutskloof Porcupine Ridge Syrah 2010
$14.95 (88 Points)
Boekenhoutskloof was established in 1776 in the Franschhoek valley. In 1993, new vineyards were planted. Grapes for this wine were sourced exclusively from Malmesbury in the Swartland. This deep purple red is velvety smooth with slightly smoky, black pepper notes along with meaty, ripe berry flavours and subtle oak. Perfect for barbecue meals.

Six Hats Chenin Blanc 2011
$10.95 (86 Points)
From Citrusdal Wines cellar, approximately 170 kilometres from Cape Town. Grapes are sourced from Fairtrade certified vineyards. This is a simple fresh white just perfect for the summer months. Clean and light with a zippy acidity and some tropical notes, it’s good with seafood or as an aperitif.

Durbanville Hills 2011 Sauvignon Blanc
$11.95 (88 Points)
From grapes sourced from Durbanville Hills member farms, some high-altitude vineyards on the slopes of the Hooge Bergs Valley, this is a nice combo of tropical fruit and citrus. Papaya, pineapple and guava flavours are punched up with notes of lime and melon. Nicely concentrated, medium full and textural, it finishes fresh and crisp.