Wine52 Review: Robertson, South Africa Case

Our latest case with Wine52 takes you on a sunny trip to South Africa’s Roberston. Located in the Breede River Valley wine region, conditions are warm and dry with irrigation access provided by the river, allowing for relatively easy grape growing conditions. Robertson is what is known as a district under South African wine law, which is basically a smaller area within a region.

Unusually for South Africa, Robertson has limestone soils which is particularly renowned for making quality white wines and fizz. That’s why names such as Graham Beck are here. In the Wine52 case are three excellent examples of what the region can do with still wine. A powerful red, crisp Sauvignon and SA classic Chenin Blanc.

The Wine Tasting

Verband Syrah/Pinotage Blend

Pinotage is quintessentially South African. A crossing between Pinot Noir and Cinsault, it was bred at the University of Stellenbosch in 1925 and has given South African reds a fantastic USP ever since. Syrah is of course a classic Rhone variety making powerful reds. Together, these two were delicious. Baked black fruits, ripe cherry and some lovely spice on the finish were the mainstays. The palate is full yet soft thanks to the well integrated tannins. It has great body and fruit-driven power to make an excellent accompaniment to a BBQ, or with Easter on the way, your roast lamb.

Verkoel Sauvignon Blanc

Generally I tend to prefer Sauvignon from South Africa due to the effect of the more moderate climate influence than the warm, sunny kiwi versions. And this is exactly what I bargained for, thankfully.

It had the tropical passionfruit, guava and white peach flavours tempered with cool climate Sauvignon green bell pepper and grassy notes. To me, it was perfectly balanced with high acidity and a more than quaffable finish.

Sonskyn Chenin Blanc

Chenin is another South African specialty. Yes, it is also the main white grape of the Loire but South African winemakers have made it their own too.

This one was tropical, well rounded and fruity. Buttery oak and vanilla kick things off immediately with a nice flavourful onslaught. Tropical pineapple and mango then come into play with melon and green apple in the mix too. Like most Chenin, it has a lovely rich texture that makes it feel extra luxurious.