Semillon, Viognier and more: top SA niche wines in 2012
THE STAND-OUT South African wines made from niche varieties, the best reviews of the year – including a particularly successful Viognier, which many winemakers regard as better suited for blending with other varieties, a Grenache Blanc with great interest value, and a couple of dry reds from cultivars more commonly associated with port-style fortified wines:
Altydgedacht Gewürztraminer 2012 – double gold medal at Michelangelo Awards
KWV The Mentors Grenache Blanc 2011 – trophy at Five Nations Challenge, highly recommended in Platter’s Guide
Groote Post Riesling 2012 – highly recommended in Platter’s Guide
Jordan The Real McCoy Riesling 2010 – Top 100 SA Wine Challenge selection
Jordan The Real McCoy Riesling 2011 – gold medal at Five Nations Challenge
Cape Point Semillon 2008 – trophy at Trophy Wine Show
David Nieuwoudt Ghost Corner Semillon 2011 – gold medal at International Wine & Spirit Competition
Landu du Val Semillon 2010 – Top 100 SA Wine Challenge selection
Ondine Semillon 2010 – trophy at Trophy Wine Show
Alvi’s Drift Viognier 2011 – Top 100 SA Wine Challenge selection
De Grendel Viognier 2012 – double gold medal at Michelangelo Awards
Eagles’ Nest Viognier 2010 – gold medal at Five Nations Challenge
Fairview Viognier 2010 – gold medal at Mondial 2010
Saronsberg Viognier 2010 – gold medal at International Wine Challenge, gold medal at Classic Awards, Top 100 SA Wine Challenge selection
RED WINES
Sadie Pofadder 2011 from Cinsaut – highly recommended in Platter’s Guide
Signatures of Doolhof Malbec 2010 – Top 100 SA Wine Challenge selection
Sadie Treinspoor 2011 from Tinta Barocca – highly recommended in Platter’s Guide
Calitzdorp Cellar Touriga Naçional 2010 – Top 100 SA Wine Challenge selection
