South Africa’s Cape Winelands is renowned for its vast expanse of vineyards, covering over 90,512 hectares, and producing an array of wine varieties. Among the most popular cultivars is the sauvignon blanc, which originated in Bordeaux, France. Its popularity has grown, and today, it is one of the most widely grown wine grapes in South Africa. Join us on a journey through the Cape Winelands as we explore the region’s finest sauvignon blanc offerings.
Cape Point Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc 2022
Located on the slopes of Chapman’s Peak, Cape Point Vineyards produces a fruity and refreshing sauvignon blanc that boasts ripe nectarine, passion fruit, gooseberry, and fig aromas. The addition of semillon and oak-barrel aging adds complexity, with flavors of racy acidity and oak spice that linger on the palate. This versatile blend pairs well with poultry, pasta, fish, and cheese, particularly brie and chevin.
De Grendel Sauvignon Blanc 2022
De Grendel’s sauvignon blanc is grown on the fynbos-covered slopes of the Tygerberg, and it is a complex wine with notes of lime, tropical fruits, and fresh herbs. The winery blends grapes from various regions to create this innovative wine. This 2022 offering pairs well with dishes such as grilled cod, tempura prawns, goat’s cheese, or Cajun-spiced calamari. The wine has an aging potential of three to four years, which promises a richer taste and well-integrated acidity.
Z Collection Sauvignon Blanc 2021
Zevenwacht Farm has a 300-year history and is known for blending traditional methods with innovation in their Z Collection. Their sauvignon blanc is barrel-fermented and aged on the lees for nine months, delivering a mid-palate weight that evolves over three to five years. With a concentrated aroma of blackcurrant, gooseberry, and citrus, this aperitif complements seafood dishes, seared tuna, oysters, or steamed asparagus with hollandaise sauce.
Bonnievale The River Collection Sauvignon Blanc 2022
The Bonnievale Wines‘ River Collection Sauvignon Blanc brings a tropical fruit salad to your senses, with an undercurrent of vineyard grit and herbaceousness. This wine celebrates the terroir of the slopes, soils, and climate. It pairs well with creamy and delicate cheeses like brie and camembert. In addition, the winery’s tasting room offers a delectable pizza or chocolate pairing.
Paul Clüver Village Sauvignon Blanc 2022
The family-owned Paul Clüver Winery produces a sauvignon blanc bursting with passion fruit, blackcurrant, and grapefruit flavors, underscored by mineral notes. Their pressing process is meticulous, ensuring a complex, higher quality wine with a richer mid-palate. Blended with 10% semillon, this versatile wine is perfect as an aperitif or paired with salads, seafood dishes, and rich cheese platters in the cooler months.
Savoring the Gems of the Cape Winelands
As we savor the exceptional sauvignon blanc wines from the Cape Winelands, we celebrate the artistry, innovation, and dedication of the region’s vintners. Embark on a sensory voyage through this rich tapestry of flavors, and savor the essence of the Cape in every sip.