Valentine’s Day is nearly upon us, and what better way is there to gear up for the most romantic day of the year than by stocking up on your favourite pink drink? We’re not talking Strawberry Lips, strawberry daiquiris or strawberry anything, for that matter, we’re talking rosé – the fastest growing drink on the South African wine scene, and the most delicious way to sip away the last few days of summer. No longer just a sweet pink drink to accompany an afternoon tea, South Africa’s rosé portfolio has a growing list of vinos to suit every taste and pocket.
If you’re wanting something special for your Valentine’s Day celebration but don’t want to break the bank, you can’t go wrong with Lutzville’s 2017 Shiraz Rosé. This off-dry vintage won double gold medals at the 2017 Rosé Rocks competition and is hailed for being filled with the soft taste of summer fruits and an elegant acidity, perfect for complementing a cheeky spicy curry or a fresh summer salad.
2017 Mourvèdre Rosé from Quando Vineyards
You might also be interested in the 2017 Mourvèdre Rosé from Quando Vineyards, which also received double gold medals at Rosé Rocks last year. The wine was created by winemaker Fanus Bruwer to drink himself because he loves a good rosé in summer. Made from Mourvèdre grapes (the same grapes used to make rosé wines in Southern France and Spain) grown on a slope of Red Karoo clay, the wine has a full juiciness that’s reminiscent of red berries and goes well with sweet treats and desserts, offsetting sugary tastes with its elegant acidity.
Almenkerk’s 2017 Lace Dry Rosé
Impress your date with Almenkerk’s 2017 Lace Dry Rosé. Also a double gold winner, this wine is made from Cabernet Sauvignon grapes that are picked earlier to get their vibrant fruit flavours, making it a dry, more serious rosé. Complemented by aromas of raspberry and watermelon, this delicious rosé is the perfect choice if you’re serving seafood or pork for your special Valentine’s Day treat.
Lutzville Vineyards, Lutzville
Quando Vineyards and Winery, Bonnievale
Almenkerk Wine Estate, Elgin Valley
Words: Lucy Sarah O’Connell | Images: Supplied
