04 Oct 2023
This week, I had the pleasure of reconnecting with Gordon Clunie at Paramount Wines in St Albans.
Summer has come and gone, but the excitement in the world of wine never wanes. Gordon had some exciting news to share, including a revamped and user-friendly Paramount Wines website, showcasing an expanded wine range.
Moreover, he’s introduced ‘UNCORKED’, a guest blog where wine experts, like yours truly, share insights on the season’s must-try selections.
Gordon was particularly eager to introduce me to two outstanding South African wines that have taken centre stage in his collection. And why the focus on South Africa, you may wonder? Well, South African wine has rapidly risen to prominence on the global stage, captivating connoisseurs worldwide.
Nestled at the southern tip of the African continent, this picturesque wine region marries rolling vineyards with the rugged beauty of the coast. However, it’s not just the scenery that’s breathtaking; it’s the exceptional quality and unique character of the wines themselves that have wine lovers buzzing with anticipation. Two wines that are currently standing out on the global wine stage are Le Riche Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 and Fryers Cove Cape West Coast Grenache Cinsault 2022.
Le Riche Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 (£19.95)
Le Riche Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 sets itself apart by expertly blending grapes from four distinct terroirs, resulting in a wine that boasts ripe cherries, fresh plums, and hints of vanilla and cedar spice. This maritime-influenced Cabernet is consistently rated as one of South Africa’s finest, recently earning the prestigious title of ‘Best in Show’ at the Decanter World Wine Awards 2023. It offers a delightful combination of rich fruit flavours, smooth and velvety tannins, and a finish that keeps you guessing. It’s both rich and refreshingly lively, with the taste of ripe black fruits, a creamy feel in your mouth, and a subtle hint of dark chocolate, all nicely balanced by rounded tannins. It pairs wonderfully with hearty meat dishes like fillet steak with peppercorn sauce or a hearty stew. Plus, it’s a wine that can get even better with age, promising a long and interesting
future.
Fryers Cove Cape West Coast Grenache Cinsault 2022 (£12.25)
Fryers Cove Cape West Coast Grenache Cinsault 2022 is a medium-bodied wine with a bright colour
and aromas of wild raspberry and clove spice. It boasts smooth tannins, balanced acidity, and a seductive round finish.
The Grenache and Cinsault grapes benefit from the bracing, cold Atlantic air, which promotes good health in the vineyards and the 2021 vintage experienced cooler conditions leading up to harvest, resulting in grapes with excellent concentration and flavour expression.
This wine pairs wonderfully with game or meaty-style fish, such as tuna steak, and received a Bronze Award at the Decanter Awards in 2023. In fact, after savouring my first Two Two burger last weekend, I’m tempted to have another one delivered home to enjoy with this stunning wine.
South African wines are renowned for offering exceptional quality at approachable prices, ensuring you can savour a bottle that has gathered awards and accolades without breaking the bank. Each wine tells a unique story, from the Bordeaux-inspired elegance of Le Riche to the vibrant coastal charm of Fryers Cove.
Head over to Paramount Wines, check out the ‘Guest Blogs’ and raise a glass to toast these exceptional wines as we celebrate South Africa’s burgeoning reputation as a world-class wine producer.
If you’re enjoying my recommendations, then please follow me on Instagram by searching for @dmc_uncorked.
And if you are a wine retailer or an events company who would like me to feature your range of wines, then please contact me via mccabetwe@gmail.com
