Yummy wine and food combos

I've been doing pairing articles for a good year now but this one is extra special because instead of just sticking with one variety, I get to branch out and promote our new wine.co.za venture, MIXED CASES. Brilliant. The 6 wines in the white/red case offer something for everyone and are from a variety of terroirs

Here are 6 of my favourite recipes paired with 6 wines from award-winning South African wineries:

Edgebaston Cabernet Sauvignon

Cab is typically a bold red wine and this one is no different - super dry with notes of cassis and mint. It's tannins can be quite pronounced which is where the right food pairing really helps to bring about a more harmonious drinking experience. Because the weather is turning, the perfect accompaniment to this wine would be a hearty plateful of Slow Cooked Shredded Beef Ragu Pasta. Rich tomato sauce, tender meat and generous amounts of shaved parmesan can only be improved with a glass of Cab Sauv.

For the recipe, click here

Altydgedacht Barberra

There is an inherent sweetness to Barbera which comes from the luscious fruit notes. Altydgedacht make the most of the flavour profile of this Italian grape by not over oaking it thus it responds well to dishes that have a slight sweetness to them as well as a hint of acidity. I love this wine, the gentle tannins and juicy body will make it a great partner to Caramelized Vegetable Pizza with Goat Cheese and Pepperoni.

For the recipe, click here

Raka Biography Shiraz

Shiraz is a true winter warmer and a great wine for the meat fan. This wine has black berry and white pepper aromas with a hint of vanilla. Its lush texture will lend itself towards juicy, sauce-laden ribs or a steak covered in peppercorn sauce. To keep things truly South African, try it with boerewors pasta.

For the recipe, click here

Spier Creative Block 2 (Sauv/Sem)

This is a fresh wine and a dream to pair with dishes that have a generous squeeze of lemon and/or tomato. Whole fish roasted with potatoes and thyme would be lovely with this wine and even a homemade tomato soup with crusty parmesan croutons would be super yummy. This wine has some greenness to it but the inclusion of Semillon gives it a rounded, fuller mouthfeel. 

Stellenrust Chenin Blanc

One of SA's most popular planted cultivars, Chenin is relatively easy to grow and also easy to pair. If it's wooded, it demonstrates a creamy texture and whilst this one from Stellenrust did have some oak contact, it's deliciously fruity without being flabby. Make yourself a Cape Malay curry with lots of basmati rice and you're on to a winner.

Lammershoek Roulette Blanc

An unusual white wine blend that needs careful planning; a blend of Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Clairette Blanche and Viognier, thus it has an aromatic nose, slight honeyed features and a rounded, waxy texture. Dishes with a creamy sauce or a touch of citrus would be ideal.