Winter South Africa Box- 12 Bottle

This sustainably-farmed Cabernet Sauvignon is produced by Ntsiki Biyela, South Africa’s first black female winemaker who continues to pioneer the way for women around her. Classic Cab aromas of cassis, juicy black plum, and cigar box leap from the glass. On the palate, this seriously delicious red is savory and balanced with a hint of cooling eucalyptus. Eric Asimov, NY Times wine critic, even named it a “wine to remember in a year to forget (2020).” This juice is the real deal.

“I don’t believe wine could be made much more naturally than this.” says winemaker Johnathan Grieve. Avondale is the the first South African winery to use Qvevri, egg- shaped terracotta clay pots that come from the country of Georgia. On the nose, a mélange of succulent red fruit – raspberry, mulberry, strawberry - overlaid with the unmistakable minerality and earthiness from the Qvevri. On the palate, a refreshing brightness lends incredible drinkability to this truly addictive and utterly delightful red.

Pinotage is uniquely South African. Bred in 1925 as a hybrid of Pinot Noir and Cinsaut by a South African scientist, it’s very rarely grown outside the country. Like its parent Pinot Noir, it takes a skilled hand to make a great expression of this tempermental grape variety. Bosman has nailed it! Aromas of ripe sun-kissed blackberries and strawberries mingle with dark notes of violets and rich mocha toffee. On the palate, the wine is juicy and round with soft supple tannins. This is a special wine.

This single vineyard, old-vine, Chenin Blanc literally stopped us in our tracks. Chenin is the white wine queen of South Africa so it was imperitive we found a truly exceptional example. This stunner opens up with cozy aromas of caramelized apples and pears and tart pineapple laced with an exotic, warm spice. On the palate, the wine is elegant and beautifully silky, yet ends with a surpise, cymbal-crash of acidity that makes you want to hit replay again and again. If we could dream up the perfect “winter white” it would be this bottle.

The first US release of this highly coveted, sustainably-produced wine (only 250 cases made) from award-winning sommelier turned winemaker Tinashe Nyamudoka. Pretty notes of honeysuckle mingle with unctous aromas of canned peaches, green melon, and a touch of citrus rind. On the palate, the wine is plush and waxy but Chenin’s zesty acid keeps this beauty impeccably balanced. The finish goes on and on and on. Keep an eye on Kumusha - this is just the beginning.

Made by Wine Enthusiast’s International Winemaker of the Year 2016, this wine has tons of star power. A highly perfumed and refined Syrah with notes of blackberries, violets and a little spiced black pepper all wrapped up in a delicate smokey veil. The palate is elegant with a silky texture balanced by fresh, natural acidity, a long finish, and supple tannins. Winner winner, steak dinner.