Amongst the myriad wines of South Africa, a few names have stood the test of time. These are the iconic producers crafting poised, age-worthy wines.
Palladius 2019
From influential winemaker Eben Sadie comes the Palladius, a veritable expression of Swartland, comprising 11 different grapes from 17 sites. In his pursuit of freshness, Sadie dropped new oak in favour of concrete eggs and clay amphorae; and opted for Mediterranean varieties like Colombard, Palomino, Verdelho, and Rhone whites to complement the core of chenin blanc. The 2019 vintage presents a complex floral, citrus, honey, nectarines and pear on the nose, which replicates on the palate with an alluring phenolic bitterness on the finish. To pair, think seafood, white meats, and fresh pasta dishes. $158, Ampelia Fine Wines
Glenelly Lady May 2015
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Longueville Comtesse de Lalande. A blend of cabernet sauvignon, merlot, cabernet franc and petit Verdot, the wine is seamless with black and blue fruits, a medium body, and a mineral finish. An age-worthy wine and a great accompaniment to red meats. $115, Wine Clique
Klein Constantia Vin De Constance 2018
This sweet nectar is the stuff of legends. With 337 years of winemaking history, it counts Napolean and Jane Austen as its fans and continues to impress vintage after vintage. Winemaker Matthew Day aims to make a “sweet wine that doesn’t taste sweet”. This vintage is intensely floral, with signature notes of white flowers, marmalade, beeswax, pickled ginger and apricots, and a poetic balance of sugar and acid in its intensity of flavour and delicate mouthfeel. Drink chilled, preferably with a platter of cheese. $126, Wine Clique