ON THE GRAPEVINE

A winemaker’s playground, South Africa has it all. And walking the line between the fruit-forward ripeness of New World wines and more restrained elegance of the Old World, the Cape Winelands are the beating heart of the South African wine industry.

As Rollo Gabb, managing director of award-winning winery Journey’s End puts it: “From a quality, value perspective, South Africa continues to do what it’s been doing consistently for a very long time, which is producing a broad spectrum of well-known and lesser-known varietals and producing them very well, with great fruit expression and elegance.” 1.Mount

Rozier Reserve The Red Snapper Cinsault 2020, Western Cape, South Africa, £6, Sainsbury’s

A delicious discovery and part of the Journey’s End family, this sun-kissed juicy red can be enjoyed slightly chilled on a warm summer’s day, with its bright berry fruits and low tannins. 2.Tesco

Finest South African Sauvignon Blanc 2020, Stellenbosch, South Africa, £7.50, Tesco

Very stylish, this own-label wine shows plenty of character with gooseberry, citrus and limes leaping from the glass and crisp, refreshing finish. Super fresh and lots of fun. 3.AA

Badenhorst The Curator White Blend, Swartland, South Africa, £8.99, Waitrose

Deftly blended, here we have chenin blanc, chardonnay and viognier to highlight how South Africa offers stellar deals and grapes to highlight the country’s diversity. An A-list producer, Badenhorst’s entry-level Curator line hints at greatness – and if you’re very taken with the creamy ripe stone fruits in this vibrant white, check out their top tier Kalmoesfontein White Blend.

4.Morgenhof Estate Merlot 2015, Stellenbosch, South Africa, £13.99, Waitrose

This magnificent merlot hails from a fantastic vintage. It’s a luxurious red with fabulous aromas of blueberry, cherry and plums, which unfold onto a rich, velvety smooth palate with a long, persistent finish.