As the days get darker earlier and the weather cools down, we tend to reach for the nearest blanket and a lovely glass of red wine.
Luckily, we’ve found some of the best South African wines that are perfect for winter – to keep you from getting gloomy on chilly evenings.
ALSO SEE: The 5 best plush blankets for winter
We’ve even included two whites for those who prefer them to heavier reds. Cheers!
1. Hermanuspietersfontein Skoonma
Nestled in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley near Hermanus, Hermanuspietersfontein has a delightful selection of wines, and this is one of my favourites.
A brick-red Shiraz with sweet and spicy tones – it’s sure to keep you warm this winter. It is wonderfully smooth and elegant with notes of black olives and dark chocolate. From R159, Makro
ALSO SEE: Our recipe for roast rib of beef with red wine gravy recipe
2. Muratie Alberta Annemarie Merlot 2015
Muratie Wine Estate, in the exquisite Knorhoek Valley near Stellenbosch, dates back as far as 1685. If you’ve never visited the farm, we highly recommend a tasting there.
Luckily for those of us who don’t live nearby, you can purchase the exceptional Alberta Annemarie Merlot, named after one of South Africa’s first female wine-farm owners.
Keep it for five years to let the dark chocolate, black cherry and toasted hazelnut flavours develop. From R129, Makro
3. Kanonkop Kadette Pinotage 2015
This definitely deserves a place on the list of South African wines that are perfect for winter.
Another Stellenbosch wine estate, Kanonkop produces this beauty that is always a hit. Best paired with pasta, red meat or spicy Asian dishes; this Pinotage is your perfect companion for a chilly winter evening. From R109, Makro
ALSO SEE: Our chicken in tomatoes and red wine with a warm bean salad recipe
4. Haute Cabrière Pinot Noir Reserve 2014
Located in the magnificent valley of Franschhoek, Haute Cabrière is home to a selection of stunning Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs.
The Pinot Noir Reserve 2014 is among my favourites, served best when slightly chilled (even in winter) with lamb or steak. From R209, Makro
5. Glen Carlou Quartz Stone Chardonnay 2017
For those who prefer white wine in winter, this is one of South Africa’s best Chardonnays in my opinion.
Wonderfully buttery and creamy, it is just divine with a hearty pasta, flaky chicken pie, or for just sipping on the couch under a blanket. From R295, Makro
6. Stellenbosch Hills Polkadraai Pinotage/Merlot 2017
This easy-drinking red from Stellenbosch Hills is as playful as the name and label suggest, but it doesn’t skimp on flavour. Aged in French and American oak barrels for 6 months, it is smooth and bursting with berry fruit notes.
Enjoy it next to the fire or served with a comforting winter bake like moussaka, a cheesy Parmigiana, or a hearty beef goulash. From R44, Makro
7. Stellenbosch Hills Polkadraai Chenin Blanc/Sauvignon Blanc 2018
As affordable as it is tasty, this white is another winner from Stellenbosch Hills. Zesty and grassy on the nose, it is best served chilled to allow the tropical fruit flavours to shine through.
Although it’s quite light and crisp, this South African wine is perfect for winter and holds its own with dishes like honey-roasted duck, vegetable risotto or steamy paella. From R44, Makro
- By food and decor editor, Claire Badenhorst
Be sure to check out The 25 Best Restaurants in Stellenbosch.
