The Durbanville Wine Valley is well-known for its diverse experiences from outdoor excursions and kid-friendly locations to wine tasting and delicious dining. Durbanville is also home to some of South Africa’s most renowned wineries and champion brands, thanks to its cool climate, and diversity of soils and slopes. They include Altydgedacht, Bloemendal, Canto, D’Aria, Diemersdal, De Grendel, Durbanville Hills, Klein Roosboom, Maastricht, Meerendal, Nitida, Groot Phesantekraal and Signal Gun.
This winter, I am enjoying the Maastricht 2020 Pinotage, the Altydgedacht 2020 Barbera, and the Bloemendal 2015 Syrah – all exceptional quality and under the R250 mark.
Maastricht
Maastricht is a family-owned wine estate close to the popular Nitida winery in the Durbanville Wine Valley. Did you know that it is one of the first nine farms in the Cape to be registered as a wine producer! Today, Maastricht has about 100 hectares of vineyard plantings.
The Maastricht 2020 Pinotage is available from the cellar at R130 per bottle. This wine shows red fruits and a touch of black cherry, combined with hints of toasty oak on the nose. The entry on the palate is silky, with elegantly soft tannins and a big, juicy mouthfeel rounding off the wine.
Red meat is the obvious choice for Pinotage, though we would recommend heavier cuts, served with a spicy, smoky or sweet sauce.
Altydgedacht
Altydgedacht is known for making some of the finest wines, has included a traditional Northern Italian varietal, which is a favourite of mine – Barbera.
The Altydgedacht (100%) Barbera 2020 is available from the tasting room at R190 per bottle. It shows floral notes and Christmas spices, supported by subtle oak tannins adding a layer of cigar box and cedar wood notes. A velvety entry on the palate rounded off with varietal fruit flavours and oaky sweetness is the perfect accompaniment to hearty winter dishes.
Bloemendal Wine Estate
Bloemendal Wine Estate is another historic gem situated in the Durbanville Wine Valley which was established in 1702. They have the intensely aromatic, Limited Edition 2015 Syrah, from the premium Estate range.
Made in a small boutique cellar, this wine shows aromas of spice, clove, and ground pepper leading to a supple palate with a refreshing finish.
Available at R225 from the tasting room, this wine is a versatile winter red that pairs well with grilled meats, vegetables, venison, and beef stews.
Visit the Durbanville Wine Valley for more
For more information on the Durbanville Wine Valley and the wines they have on offer, visit https://durbanvillewine.co.za/
