Embark on Your Wine Journey with These Accessible and Affordable Wines
Explore Your Wine
Best Wines for Beginners: Venturing into the world of wine can feel like stepping into a vast, aromatic library—each bottle a story, each sip a new chapter. The journey is made easier with a plethora of local wines that are both delightful and budget-friendly. This guide introduces you to beginner-friendly wines that are readily available in Gauteng, ensuring your initiation into wine is both enjoyable and accessible.
Top Wines for Beginners
1. Chenin Blanc
- Profile: Light to medium-bodied white with flavours of tropical fruits, apple, and pear.
- Why Beginners Love It: Its versatility and refreshing taste make it an excellent starting point.
- Recommended Brands:
- Bellingham Old Vine Chenin Blanc – Known for its creamy texture and tropical notes.
- Kleine Zalze Chenin Blanc – Offers a balance of fruitiness and acidity.
- Price Range: R60 – R120 per bottle.
2. Sauvignon Blanc
- Profile: Crisp and aromatic white with notes of lime, green apple, and tropical fruits.
- Why Beginners Love It: Its zesty acidity and vibrant flavours are invigorating.
- Recommended Brands:
- Springfield Estate Life from Stone – A mineral-rich profile with citrus undertones.
- Diemersdal Sauvignon Blanc – Fresh and zesty, perfect for warm days.
- Price Range: R80 – R150 per bottle.
3. Pinotage
- Profile: Medium-bodied red with flavours of dark fruits, smoke, and earthy undertones.
- Why Beginners Love It: As South Africa’s signature grape, it’s a must-try for locals.
- Recommended Brands:
- Diemersfontein The Original Pinotage – Known for its coffee and chocolate notes.
- Beyerskloof Pinotage – A fruit-forward wine with soft tannins.
- Price Range: R70 – R130 per bottle.
4. Merlot
- Profile: Medium-bodied red with soft tannins and flavors of plum, black cherry, and chocolate.
- Why Beginners Love It: Smooth and approachable, it’s a gentle introduction to red wines.
- Recommended Brands:
- Neethlingshof Merlot – Offers a balance of fruitiness and subtle oak.
- Bosman Family Vineyards Merlot – Rich and velvety with a lingering finish.
- Price Range: R80 – R140 per bottle.
Where to Purchase Beginner-Friendly Wines in Gauteng
- Makro: Offers a wide selection of local and international wines at competitive prices.
- Liquor City: One of South Africa’s largest independent liquor retailers with multiple outlets in Gauteng.
- Wine Menu: A specialist wine store in Johannesburg focusing on quality South African wines.
- Norman Goodfellows: Offers a curated selection of fine wines and delivers across Gauteng.
- Eighteen13: Based in Johannesburg, they specialise in boutique, non-commercial South African wines.
Pairing Tips
- Chenin Blanc: Pairs well with grilled chicken, seafood, and creamy pasta dishes.
- Sauvignon Blanc: Complements salads, goat cheese, and light seafood dishes.
- Pinotage: Ideal with braai meats, stews, and hearty vegetable dishes.
- Merlot: Matches nicely with red meats, tomato-based dishes, and mushroom risottos.
Final Flavour
Embarking on your wine journey should be an enjoyable adventure. South Africa offers a plethora of beginner-friendly wines that are both delightful and affordable. Start with these selections, explore different regions and styles, and most importantly, trust your taste buds. Remember, the best wine is the one you enjoy.
Check out: 10 Fine Wines You Need to Taste
