The New South Africa

Sorry for the radio silence, I have been busy uncovering a hidden gem from within my prejudices. South Africa, maybe too well known for over-ripe, "created" bulk wines, proved to be so much more. A trip around the western cape was not only breathtakingly beautiful, it also gave me the chance to discover the newest wave of winemaking in this part of the world. Sure, a decent number of well established properties have already showed that they can make French-styled premium wines. But now come the young guns, showing us a new South African style with lots of personality and optimal drinkability. The whites were some of the most interesting wines I tried, and especially the ones based on the grape chenin blanc. A few cool-climate chardonnays combined the richness of sunny weather with the acidity and backbone of cool nights. Quite pleasant! Here are a few picks which I sincerely hope you can get a hold of. They opened my eyes!