For this month, we were tempted to go for South African pinotage, the country’s signature wine known for its perfect pairing with barbeques. Then we felt our bulging stomachs and decided to lay off the red meat. Luckily, South Africa also features chenin blanc, a dry and sweet white wine that pairs nicely with fish and chicken dishes. Called steen by the locals, chenin blanc exhibits a wide range of characteristics that had us comparing one bottle to a fruity sauvignon blanc and another to an oaky chardonnay. And while our steen compelled us to eat healthier, we tried it with Thai takeout one night and found the combination quite sublime.
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Teddy Hall 2006
is one of the eponymous wines by famous South African winemaker Teddy Hall.
The Teddy Hall Chenin is a bright and fruity wine that is both sweet (think wild honey) and crisp at the same time. We loved it with our spinach salad with dried cranberries as well as our creamy shrimp pasta.
Price: $11.99
Buy it at:
67 Wine & Spirits
179 Columbus Ave.
New York, NY 10023
www.67wine.com
Map | Directions
Vinum 2006
comes from The Winery of Good Hope in Stellenbosch, South Africa’s version of Napa Valley.
Lime was the first thing that came to mind when we tasted Vinum, along with a very flowery nose. The citrusy flavors of the wine made it a perfect match with Thai takeout.
Price: $11.99
Buy it at:
Astor Wines & Spirits
399 Lafayette St.
New York, NY 10003
www.astorwines.com
Map | Direction
Indaba 2006
gets its name from a traditional Zulu forum for sharing ideas and also comes from Stellenbosch.
Subtle with tropical fruit flavors and a smooth creamy finish, the Indaba is a versatile wine that works well with a fresh chicken salad or a flavorful grilled fish.
Price: $7.99
Buy it at:
September
100 Stanton Street
New York, NY 10002
www.septemberwines.com
Map | Directions
Rudera 2005
is also from a vineyard owned by Teddy Hall and hails from Stellenbosch.
The Rudera is a bright and complex wine with hints of apple and grapefruit as well as a floral nose. It works well with pork chops and even complements a good slice of pizza.
Price: $16.99
Buy it at:
Manley’s
35 8th Avenue
New York, NY 10014
www.manleyswine.com
Map | Directions