The news is welcome to wine producers such as Boplaas Family Vineyards, whose port wines have consistently been recognised among South Africa’s best.
Days ago, leading agricultural publication Landbou.com reported that South Africa had experienced up to 40% more cold units this year when compared to the same period last year. Cold units refer to the accumulated time a crop spends below a specific low temperature.
“To Boplaas, cold weather is our opportunity to talk about the great qualities of port,” says veteran port producer Carel Nel. “It’s enjoyable throughout the year, but is most welcome when temperatures are low.”
The attraction of port wine during cold weather may be attributed to several factors, apart from its warming characteristics. Descriptions often associate it with the comforting richness of sweets like fudge, fruitcake, and preserves as well as pudding spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, with ripe fruit.
“On cold rainy evenings, there is nothing better than a bottle of Boplaas Cape Port in front of the fire,” says Carel.
On this count, Boplaas has a range that caters to every taste and occasion.
Boplaas Cape Ruby is a top-seller in South Africa. Its gemstone blush and notes of red berry, plum and violets are supported into the long finish by well-integrated alcohol. It is made from Tinta Barroca and vinified in open fermenters or traditional Portuguese lagars. It is then matured for two to three years before bottling. It is ideal to drink on its own, or before and after meals.
The Boplaas Cape Vintage Reserve 2020 is a complex port with dark colour and intense fruit. Notes include black berry, plum and chocolate. While drinkable now, soft tannins give it the potential to age for beyond 50 years. The port is a regular award-winner, having received Veritas Double Gold and five stars from Platter’s South African wine guide. Platter’s also named it Port of the Year.
The Boplaas Cape Tawny N/V has a typical tawny colour thanks to 10 years of barrel ageing. It shows fruitcake, dry apricot and nuts along with dried orange peel and a long finish. The port is also a Veritas Double Gold winner.
The Boplaas 2007 Cape Tawny Colheita was aged for 16 years in old Portuguese oak barrels. It too has a tawny colour and displays nuttiness, intense dried citrus, rich caramel and fruitcake. Tempered in sweetness, the port provides a long and lingering finish.
Amongst the accolades that Boplaas has received as applies to port, are the title of Best Port at both the National Wine Challenge/Top 100 SA Wines and South African Terroir Wine Awards.
Boplaas wines, ports and spirits are available at fine retailers across South Africa, and can also be ordered online from boplaas.co.za. Shipping is free on all orders over R2 000, and only available in South Africa. Get maximum benefits on Boplaas releases when you sign up – via the website - as a member of its wine and whisky club.