Talking to a client this evening reminded me of a very enjoyable tasting trip to South Africa, a land of great promise and ever increasing quality.

Most impressive on the trip, which included wineries such as Hamilton Russell, Vergelegen, Klein Constantia to name but three, was the variety of wines on offer. Granted some where not as good as others but almost with fail the wineries all shared one key belief. That being the view that South Africa can make not just good bulk wine, but also great wine.

One of my favourite wines of all time is the Iona Sauvignon Blanc, an incredibly aromatic nose makes promise of great things to come and your not going to be disappointed. Gooseberry and grapefruit abound but in good balance with the mineral notes which make Sauvignon so crisp and enjoyable. A great wine to be enjoyed with most fish or fresh asparagus.

For those with slightly deeper pockets and an evening to savour their wines the Clos Malverne Cabernet Merlot Limited Release is one that will hit the button. This is a powerful full-bodied wine with firm juicy tannins. The herby and berry character of the Cabernet Sauvignon is apparent but then you are positively assaulted by the fruitiness of the Merlot. Couple this with a long, and velvety finish that just seems to go on for ever, this is definately one of my armchair and slippers suggestions!

For the most interesting winery at the moment I will plump for Niel Joubert. A selection of wines that we use for a mix of wholesale and retail, yet each one seems to stand up in its own right. My favourite the Sauvignon Blanc and Chenin Blanc.  From a family that began winemaking in the Paarl region in 1898 they are now training the fourth generation and seem to be growing from strength to strength. The fruit in all of their wines seems unadulaterated in its flavour and a great example of what the varietal in question should taste like. Simplicity in itself but well thought out and executed properly

Other wineries to mention? Boschendal, Klein Constantia (Vin de Constance is simply a stunner!), Hamilton Russell (Pinot Noir and Chardonnay), Weltevrede (Gewurztraminer is excellent) the list goes on and on!

Oh and if you get a chance to visit and drive the Garden Route - having a picnic on the cliffs overlooking Hermanus Bay and watching the whales beaching right in front of you with a glass of Sparkling.... its hard to beat!