At the SA wine seminar I attended Su Birch, the CEO of Wines of South Africa spoke to us about why South African wine is so unique and spirited. She also told us that this year is South Africa's 350th year of making wine and they are proud to celebrate such a significant moment in their winemaking history (more on iYellow's birthday celebrations below). She went on to tell everyone that human life began in South Africa, so in essense we are all part South African when it comes to our roots. I also learned this week at a Sicilian Wine tasting that South African soil is the oldest soil in the world. So overall SA has a lot of history and heritage to bring to the wine making table.
When it comes to being green South Africa is commited to doing their part. As a wine community they are dedicated to farming sustainably, producing their wine with integrity, and protecting the biodiversity of their unique winelands. Being green is part of who they are as a wine growing region. Together they are commitedd to safeguarding, showcasing and telling their rich heritage and historical stories to the world. From meeting with some of the owners, winemakers, producers and sales staff at the 2 day tasting, South Africa's wine world had some of the most friendly poeple I have ever encountered in my life, not to mention some really great wines!
- Chenin Blanc is one of SA's most versatile varietal it can be light and refreshing or mildly oaked and SA has the most chenin blanc vineyards than any other country in the world
- Pinotage is South Africa's own unique variety
- The South African wine industry is one of the most technically advanced in the world of wine
- South African Wines lead the world in environmental sustainability and production intrgrity
- South Africa has the oldest viticultural soils in the world - they date back over 500 Million years
- SA has a great diversity of wines which can suit any palate
- The South African Cape is surrounded by 2 mighty oceans
- Vin de Constance is a naturally sweet wine made in South Africa (it is really yummy and unfortunately only available in Quebec here in Canada!)
- South African Wines reflect the best of both the new and the old world
- Where SA wines grow there is more diverse life per square meter than anywhere else on the planet
- South African Wines are also great prices (you can pick up a KWV Chenin Blanc for under $8) and check out Winealign.com for other SA wines as well!
The next time you're looking for a great wine to try, pick up a bottle of South African Wine. Not only are they great on your wallet, but you'll get to try wine from a different region and explore some different varietals.
If you're interested in trying some really fabulous South African Wine (there will be 12 wine stations, cupcakes and food) be sure to join iYellow in Celebrating South Africa's 350th Birthday at Happy Birthday on Saturday December 5th at Reds Wine Bar only 125 tickts available for this event. RSVP today>>
My next wine contry trip is Chile, and I leave Nov. 20th, 2009 to explore the amazing, warm and beautiful Chilean wine world, so stay tuned for some great blog updates during that trip! The one thing that SA and Chile definitely have in common is the fact that they can offer you - the consumer - great value for your money!
So go try some South African Wine and tell me what you think and I look forward to celebrating South Africa's 350th Birthday with you on Saturday Dec. 5.
Cheers,
Ange
