Match points
A Cinsault (chill it, please!), cool-climate Chardonnay and aromatic Gewürztraminer are great matches for sommelier Joseph Dhafana’s favourite recipes in this issue
Mince koftas Cinsault
The Adama Wines Woolworths Cherry Cinsault (R87.99) is a juicy, light to medium-bodied red with vibrant notes of cherries, raspberries, plums and waterberries, and silky tannins. A hint of smokiness is complemented by a lingering ripe and spicy finish, making it a delicious match for the cumin mince koftas on page 130. The cumin brings some earthiness to the dish and chillies add spice, both of which work well with the wine. The acidity in the wine also complements the garlic, paprika and coriander. I recommend serving it chilled, especially in the heat of summer.
Angelfish Chardonnay
I love the Creation Reserve Chardonnay (R359.99) as a match for the steamed angelfish with aromatic garlic-and-ginger oil on page 88. It’s an elegant singlevineyard wine from the cool climate of the Hemel-en-Aarde region, and you can look forward to vibrant grapefruit and fragrant apple, a hint of honey and a sprinkling of cinnamon, as well as the characteristic buttery, vanilla characteristics you’d expect from a Chardonnay. The wine's bracing acidity works brilliantly with the aromatic flavours of this light and straightforward dish.
Paneer korma Gewürztraminer
The easy paneer korma with coconut rice on page 95 calls for an elegant wine, and the Simonsig Gewürztraminer (R99.99) is the ideal bottle to open. Expect aromas of white roses, fresh litchi and sweet tropical fruit. On the palate, you’ll discover layers of poached pear, litchi and candied grapefruit, plus spicy notes, incredible flavour intensity and a subtle, sweet finish. The richness of the minted yoghurt needs the fresh acidity of the wine, which also holds up to the coriander, coconut and garlic. Tropical notes complement the dried apricots in the recipe.