Red wines, meanwhile, often find themselves pushed to the back of the wine rack, waiting patiently for the return of cooler evenings. But who says red wine should be reserved for winter?
At Friesland Wines, nestled in the Bottelary Hills of Stellenbosch, we believe that a good red wine deserves a place at the table throughout the year. Whether enjoyed alongside a traditional South African braai, a leisurely outdoor lunch or a summer evening with friends, the right red wine can be every bit as enjoyable in December as it is in July.
It's all about the style
Not all red wines are created equal. While some are bold, powerful and best suited to hearty winter dishes, others offer vibrant fruit, softer tannins and a freshness that makes them particularly enjoyable during the warmer months.
Take our Friesland Pinotage 2024, for example. With its expressive plum and cherry fruit, subtle spice and smooth, approachable character, it makes a wonderful companion to summer entertaining. Served slightly cooler than usual, it pairs beautifully with grilled pork, lamb sosaties or even a homemade pizza enjoyed outdoors.
For those who prefer something a little more robust, our Friesland Shiraz 2024 offers a richer expression, with dark fruit and spice complementing the smoky flavours of a traditional South African braai.
And when a perfectly grilled steak is on the menu, our Friesland Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot 2023 brings structure and depth to the occasion, proving that summer dining need not be limited to lighter wines.
A little cooler makes all the difference
One of the simplest ways to enjoy red wine during summer is to pay attention to serving temperature. The often-quoted advice to serve red wine at room temperature originates from a time when rooms were considerably cooler than a typical South African home in summer.
When temperatures climb above 25°C, serving red wine at ambient temperature can make the alcohol seem more pronounced and the wine less refreshing. A short spell in the refrigerator before serving can make a remarkable difference.
Lighter, fruit-driven reds such as Pinotage can be particularly enjoyable at around 14–16°C, while fuller-bodied wines generally show well at approximately 16–18°C. The aim is not to serve red wine ice-cold, but rather to allow its fruit, structure and freshness to shine.
From the Bottelary Hills to your summer table
Our vineyards in the Bottelary Hills benefit from elevated slopes and maritime influences that contribute to the distinctive character of Stellenbosch wines. These natural conditions, together with thoughtful vineyard management and careful winemaking, help us produce wines that balance fruit, structure and elegance.
For us, wine has always been about more than the season in which it is enjoyed. It is about good food, memorable company and finding the right bottle for the occasion. So, as the warmer months approach and the braai fires are lit, perhaps it's time to rethink the traditional summer wine selection. After all, great red wine doesn't have a season. It simply needs the right occasion.
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