Coastal region accounts for nearly half of all vines
South African wine pairs well with beef dishes
South African wines are delicious. The coastal region here is an important Wine of Origin designation within the Western Cape and accounts for almost half of all vines grown. This area forms the core of South Africa’s wine industry. The area stretches from Darling in the north to Cape Point and Constantia in the south to Stellenbosch and Paarl in the east.
Porcupine Ridge is a wine label under a well respected producer called Boekenhoutskloof located in the coastal region. Boekenhoutskloof was established in 1776 in the furthest corner of Franschhoek valley. In 1993 the farm and homestead were purchased and the vineyards were restored and planted with Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Grenache, Semillon and Viognier.
I recently tasted the Porcupine Ridge 2017 Syrah, (CSPC 595280), $15.95. This is an inexpensive and fabulous full-bodied red. On the nose and palate you’ll find ripe blackberries with some undertones of vanilla and spice. A nice long finish. Due to its weight, this wine complements a whole range of beef-based dishes. It’s a quaffer, meaning easy drinking, and certainly a crowd pleaser.
This wine is an excellent partner for a variety of beef dishes. Here is a Crock Pot Beef Bourguignon recipe worth making and serving with this Syrah.
Crock Pot Beef Bourguignon
5 slices bacon, finely chopped 3 pounds boneless beef chuck, cut to 1-inch cubes 1 cup dry red wine 2 cups chicken broth ½ cup tomato sauce ¼ cup soy sauce ¼ cup flour 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped 2 tablespoons thyme, finely chopped 5 medium carrots, sliced 1 pound baby potatoes 8 ounce fresh mushrooms, sliced
In a skillet over medium heat fry bacon until crisp. But bacon in slow cooker
Season the beef with salt and pepper and add it to the skillet. Sear on all sides for 2 to 3 minutes. Add beef to slow cooker.
Add the red wine to the skillet scraping down the brown bits on the side. Allow it to simmer and reduce and slowly add chicken broth, and tomato sauce, and soy sauce. Slowly whisk in the flour. Add the sauce to the slow cooker.
Add garlic, thyme, carrots, potatoes, and mushrooms to the slow cooker, as well. Stir. Set slow cooker on low and cook for 8 to 10 hours. Serve hot over mashed potatoes or rice.
The easy drinking nature of this Syrah will harmonize with this tasty, easy to make and uncomplicated beef stew.