Jolette Steyn-Prior

‘Poetically reminiscent of the legendary 1985 vintage’ The highly anticipated 2021 Barolos are here! Many are calling it one of the greatest modern-day vintages, and we rate it alongside 2016, 2019 and 2020. In a nutshell, the 2021s are noble wines, showing verve and structure with pure, concentrated fruit and notable ageing potential.

A red next to a roaring fire is great, but have you experienced the joy of a cracking Champagne alongside samp and mushroom risotto, Cape Malay curry, a comforting chicken stew, or warm toast and butter? Michel Genet’s Blanc de Blancs Spirit Grand Cru is the floral, pretty, creamy, rich but focused Champagne of dreams, for only R795. From the Côte des Blancs in Champagne, this 100% Chardonnay offers breadth and minerality with fine bubbles and a velvety finish.

The 2024s from Vouvray’s most famous address are here! It was a tumultuous vintage, but Domaine Huet has drawn on nearly a century of experience to produce three gorgeous Sec Chenins. First up is the original Huet vineyard, Le Haut-Lieu, purchased in 1928. This vintage is pretty and vibrant, showing airy, lemony, apple blossom notes. Cool spring conditions ensured ample acidity and energy, expertly softened by around 6g/l of residual sugar and balanced by a lovely salty, citrus finish.