deVine Thoughts

Author: Dirk Chan

Our online feature this week is the Rust en Vrede Stellenbosch Reserve Merlot (Stellenbosch, South Africa) – $21.99 , regularly $30.49.

Rust en Vrede is one of the best wineries out of Stellenbosch wine producing region. Nestled in the Helderberge, this estate has a rich history of more than 300 years (founded in 1694) in winemaking, it is recognized for its terroir driven portfolio of robust reds.

The name translates to “Rest and peace” and this certainly is representative of this tranquil and beautiful estate, with its gorgeous Manor house, tasting room and restaurant. Sized at 55 hectares, it is known for its international grape based wines.

Our feature this week is their Stellenbosch Reserve Merlot”, showing a fresh combination of pomegranate, plums, cherries, and an herbal note of fennel. The fresh fruity flavours are accentuated by bright acidity on the palate and supported by fine tannins. Flavours of caramel and mocha are balanced by savoury notes of cured meat that bring complexity to the wine. A note of pomegranate leaves a fresh finish. Serve with substantial foods including grilled or barbequed lamb, slow cooked lamb shanks, beef, and game meats..

Rust en Vrede Stellenbosch Reserve Merlot (Stellenbosch, South Africa) – $21.99 , regularly $30.49

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Author: Dirk Chan

Our online feature this week is the 2021 Balbo Estate Malbec (Mendoza, Argentina) – $18.99 , regularly $22.99.

The Familia Falasco owns two wineries – Los Haroldos and Balbo, which are located in the province of Mendoza in Argentina. The company’s products are in great demand among the population and to date, 8% of the wine sold in Argentina are made in the company Familia Falasco. In addition, the company exports wine to 35 countries in the world.

Our feature this week is their “Estate Malbec” – it is made ​​from grapes harvested from selected varieties of vines Malbec throughout their holdings in Mendoza. The hot and dry climate of the region is ideal for creating fine wines balanced with rounded tannins and a delicate flavors. The Balbo Estate Malbec has a complex aroma of berries, cherries, jam and plum. The wine has notes of chocolate, coffee, tobacco, vanilla and caramel. The wine pairs well with beef, pork and lamb.

2021 Balbo Estate Malbec (Mendoza, Argentina) – $18.99 , regularly $22.99

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Author: Dirk Chan

Our online feature this week is the Glen Carlou Classic Chardonnay (Paarl, South Africa) – $20.99 , regularly $27.49.

The award-winning estate of Glen Carlou is owned by the Hess Group of Napa Valley fame (who also owns Peter Lehmann in Barossa and Bodegas Colome in Argentina. Carlou is located in Paarl, South Africa in the northern foothills (a half hour drive NE of Stellenbosch) and has 70 hectares under vine. They produced commercially Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc wines.

Our feature this week is their Classic Chardonnay, with lovely citrus, Granny Smith and peaches with a fair dose of butterscotch vanilla on a fruit driven mid-palate. The finish offers pear and lime with some spicy vanilla notes and softer tannins. Full-bodied with lovely finesse. Not as heavily oaked as in American chards. Lovely with a pasta in cream sauce, oysters or an oily fish.

Glen Carlou Classic Chardonnay (Paarl, South Africa) – $20.99 , regularly $27.49

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Author: Dirk Chan

Our online feature this week is the Quinta Das Carvalhas Tinto (Douro, Portugal) – $17.99 , regularly $26.49.

Quinta das Carvalhas is one of the most emblematic and spectacular properties in the Douro valley. Written references regarding this magnificent vineyard can be traced back to 1759. It enjoys a prominent position on the left bank of the Douro river, in Pinhão, the estate covers the entire hillside facing the Douro river and occupies part of the slopes of the right bank of the tributary Torto river.

Carvalhas’ old vines, are a post-phylloxera plantation, which have reached over a century old and represent one of the richest selection of ancient indigenous Douro varieties. Quinta das Carvalhas’ total area is located at different altitudes, varying from 80 to 500 metres above sea level, with vineyards exposed to both northern and southern quadrants with 74.5 hectares planted.

Our feature this week is their Tinto, made from Portuguese indigenous grapesTouriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz and Touriga Franca. A very fresh red witha beautiful ruby color and aromas of red fruit harmoniously integrated with creamy vanilla notes, demonstrating notable aromatic intensity and complexity. Very balanced and round, resulting in a very pleasant and long-lasting finish.

Quinta Das Carvalhas Tinto (Douro, Portugal) – $17.99 , regularly $26.49

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