As the seasons change, so should our wine selections! Spring and summer are all about lighter, more refreshing wines that beautifully complement seasonal dishes.
Explore the best South African and Australian wines paired with vibrant summer and spring recipes. Let’s raise a glass to sunny days ahead!
Spring Selection
Sauvignon Blanc (Australia/South Africa)
Tasting Notes: Bright and zesty, Sauvignon Blanc is like a burst of sunshine in your glass. Known for its refreshing acidity, expect vibrant notes of citrus, green apple, and tropical fruit. New Zealand's versions are often herbaceous and lively, while South African Sauvignons add a touch of minerality.
Our Recommendations:
Pike & Joyce Descente Sauvignon Blanc ( Australia ): This Savvi from Adelaide Hills has lively aromas of lemongrass and snow pea jump out of the glass, supported by a tropical mix of guava, passionfruit and a hint of flintiness.
JC Le Roux Sauvignon Blanc ( South Africa ): This truly South African MCC is a crisp and zesty sparkling wine that opens with aromas of tropical fruits, green apple, and a hint of lime. On the palate, you’ll experience bright citrus flavors complemented by fresh gooseberry and subtle minerality. The fine bubbles give it a lively, refreshing mouthfeel, with a clean, dry finish that lingers pleasantly.
Pairing:
Recipe: Grilled Asparagus Salad
Ingredients: Fresh asparagus, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, arugula, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Instructions: Grill the asparagus until tender, then toss it with cherry tomatoes, arugula, and feta. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, season, and serve with a chilled Sauvignon Blanc. This pairing is like a match made in heaven, as the wine's acidity cuts through the richness of the feta.
Full recipe here - https://www.onceuponachef.com/recipes/grilled-asparagus-feta-salad.html
Why Sauvignon Blanc? Its crisp and refreshing profile perfectly mirrors the lively essence of spring, making it a go-to choice as we welcome warmer days.
Chenin Blanc (South Africa)
Tasting Notes: This versatile white wine is a superstar, ranging from dry to off-dry, boasting flavors of pear, honey, and subtle floral notes. Its high acidity means it’s a fantastic partner for all kinds of dishes.
Our Recommendations:
Stellenrust Barrel Ferment Chenin Blanc: Rich and textured with notes of apple and honey, this wine is a delight for the senses.
Vondeling Petit Blanc Chenin Blanc: Offering fresher citrus and green apple flavors, this is perfect for lighter fare.
Pairing:
Recipe: Chicken and Mango Salad
Ingredients: Grilled chicken breast, mixed greens, mango slices, avocado, and a honey-lime dressing.
Instructions: Slice grilled chicken and toss with mixed greens, mango, and avocado. Drizzle with honey-lime dressing and enjoy with a glass of Chenin Blanc. The wine’s fruitiness will complement the mango, creating a symphony of flavors!
When it comes to mastering the art of chicken dishes, is there anyone who does it better than Nigella Lawson? https://www.nigella.com/recipes/chicken-mango-and-chilli-salad
Why Chenin Blanc? Its versatility makes it a perfect choice for spring, effortlessly adapting to a range of dishes while beautifully showcasing the fresh, vibrant produce of the season. Whether enjoyed as a crisp, dry wine or with a touch of sweetness, Chenin Blanc pairs well with everything from light salads to grilled seafood and spring vegetables. And when it comes to Chenin Blanc, no one does it better than South Africa. Known for producing some of the finest examples in the world, South African Chenin Blanc offers bright acidity, layered fruit flavors, and a refreshing minerality, making it a go-to for spring gatherings or casual outdoor sipping.
Rosé (Australia)
Tasting Notes: Rosé wines are all about fun in the sun! Light and fruity, they often showcase delightful notes of strawberry, raspberry, and watermelon, making them perfect for picnics and casual get-togethers.
Our Recommendations:
Jacob’s Creek Sparkling Rosé: With its playful strawberry notes and crisp finish, this bubbly is perfect for any celebration.
d'Arenberg The Stump Jump Rosé: The Stump Jump Rosé bursts with fresh red fruit flavors like strawberries, cherries, and raspberries, with hints of rose petals and watermelon. It has a vibrant acidity that balances the fruit sweetness, finishing crisp and dry..
Pairing:
Recipe: Quiche Lorraine
Ingredients: Pie crust, eggs, cream, bacon, cheese, and herbs.
Instructions: Bake a quiche filled with bacon, cheese, and herbs, then pair it with a chilled glass of Rosé. The acidity of the wine balances the richness of the quiche, creating a delicious brunch experience.
Why Rosé? Its vibrant and refreshing character captures the essence of springtime celebrations, making it the perfect companion for outdoor meals and gatherings.
Summer Selections
Pinot Noir (Australia/South Africa)
Tasting Notes: Pinot Noir is the elegant darling of red wines, known for its light to medium body, silky texture, and complex flavors. Expect cherries, raspberries, and a hint of earthiness—perfect for those summer evenings.
Our Recommendations:
Meerlust Pinot Noir (South Africa): Vibrant red fruit and earthy notes make this a standout choice.
Kings of Kangaroo "Thirteen31" Pinot Noir (Australia): An aromatic nose of dark cherry and currants with musk and spice overtones
Pairing:
Recipe: Grilled Salmon with Herb Butter
Ingredients: Salmon fillets, fresh herbs (dill, parsley), butter, garlic, lemon, salt, and pepper.
Instructions: Grill salmon until cooked through, then top with a mixture of butter, herbs, and lemon juice. Pair with a glass of Pinot Noir to enhance the richness of the fish while the wine’s acidity balances the flavors perfectly.
Our complete step by step here https://www.lecremedelacrumb.com/grilled-salmon-with-lemon-garlic-butter/
Why Pinot Noir? Pinot Noir is an excellent choice for summer due to its light body, bright fruit flavors, and refreshing acidity. Unlike heavier reds, Pinot Noir is elegant and approachable, making it ideal for warmer weather when you want something smooth yet not overpowering.
Chardonnay (South Africa)
Tasting Notes: South African Chardonnays are as versatile as they come! Ranging from buttery and oaky to crisp and fruity, these wines showcase stone fruit, citrus, and hints of vanilla, making them a summer staple.
Our Recommendations:
Meerlust Chardonnay: A rich and creamy choice with notes of peach and toasted oak, this wine pairs beautifully with summer dishes.
Capensis Silene: A fresher take, showcasing citrus and apple flavors that are fantastic for lighter fare.
Pairing:
Recipe: Lemon Herb Grilled Fish
Ingredients: White fish fillets, lemon, fresh herbs (dill or parsley), olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Instructions: Marinate fish in lemon juice, herbs, and olive oil, then grill until flaky. Pair with a chilled Chardonnay to complement the zesty flavors. This duo will have you dreaming of seaside escapes!
Recipe available here https://cookaifood.com/recipe/lemon-herb-grilled-fish
Why Chardonnay? Chardonnay is a summer favorite for good reason. Its rich and refreshing profile perfectly captures the essence of the season, making it a wonderful accompaniment to a wide range of summer fare. With its bright acidity and flavors ranging from crisp green apple and citrus to tropical fruits like pineapple and mango, Chardonnay enhances the flavors of grilled dishes, fresh seafood, and vibrant salads.
Sparkling Wine (Cap Classique from South Africa)
Tasting Notes: Cap Classique is South Africa’s bubbly answer to Champagne, bursting with fine bubbles and notes of citrus, toast, and stone fruit. It’s the ultimate party starter!
Our Recommendations:
Pongracz:With rich flavors of brioche and citrus, this sparkling wine is perfect for toasting special moments.
Graham Beck Brut: This refreshing bubbly offers green apple and almond notes, making it a delightful choice for any occasion.
Pairing: ( Of course it is time for Dessert )
Ingredients: Fresh strawberries, whipped cream, and sponge cake.
Instructions: Layer fresh strawberries and whipped cream over sponge cake for a sweet finale to your summer meal. Celebrate with a glass of sparkling wine—it’s a match made in dessert heaven! https://www.ricardocuisine.com/en/recipes/5714-strawberry-shortcake-the-best
Why Sparkling Wine? Its effervescence brings a celebratory flair to any gathering, making it the perfect choice for summer festivities and toasting those unforgettable moments. The lively bubbles not only elevate the drinking experience but also enhance the flavors of a variety of dishes, from light appetizers to decadent desserts.Whether it's a picnic in the park, a barbecue, or a chic garden party, sparkling wine adds a touch of elegance and joy to every occasion.
