Robert Parker's Wine Advocate publishes new SA ratings

Thursday, 7 November, 2013
Wine Cellar
According to the latest issue of the world's most influential wine journal, "The time to start discovering South African wine is not tomorrow, but today."

‘South Africa is the most exciting country in the southern hemisphere,’ maintains Neal Martin of Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate, echoing the sentiments he expressed earlier this year. In his newly released South Africa report, which covers more than 600 wines, Martin reaffirms that SA's transition is well underway. Positive shifts in winemaking and viticulture, and a new generation of ballsy (and bearded) young winemakers, are producing Old-World-inspired wines that are both elegant and pure – wines that sing their own song and reflect their unique terroir.

On the red front, Rhône blends are ‘streets ahead’ and ‘South Africa’s strongest card,’ says Martin. ‘Wake up, those who think great Syrah only comes from the hill in Hermitage or California.’

He also underscores Chenin Blanc’s potential to create world-class wines with real personality. ‘Chenin Blanc should be the country’s signature grape variety,’ he suggests, citing Eben Sadie’s Palladius as well as his Old Vine Series releases as some of the most spellbinding examples.

Barrel-fermented Sauvignon-led whites have been hugely praised, with wines from Flagstone, Reyneke, Cape Point Vineyards and Tokara all receiving massive scores.

For a list of the top-scoring wines, along withselect others, visit www.winecellarplus.co.za.

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Wine Cellar is a leading merchant and one of South Africa's foremost importers of fine wine. While the company specialises in the wines of France, Italy, Spain and elsewhere, they also offer fine local wines at competitive prices. For more information, visit www.winecellar.co.za.