South Africa Wine Tasting at Cafe Maxx

South Africa Wine Tasting at Cafe Maxx

Wednesday, April 30, 2014 6:30 PM

These tastings at the Cafe Maxx for $35 are the best value of any event that we do. You get to try 8 different wines at the same time, pre-poured so they have a chance to open up and so you can go back through the line-up to get a second and third look at everything. This is how you learn about wine and with master chef Oliver Saucy sending out a few small courses to accompany the wines, you get a taste of Cafe Maxx and an education in wine all at the same time. A great way to spend happy hour.

Tonight we will feature wines from South Africa and we are obligated to show you one Pinotage but they do make excellent wines in South Africa so only one Pinotage on the table this evening.  This is a pre-poured sit down tasting and is limited to 25 tasters, the fee for this tasting is $35 + Gratuity + tax for reservations call 954-523-9463.

Tasting Line-up:

Mulderbosch Cabernet Sauvignon Rose      Price: $12.50    Sale $11.00    Case $128

A sexy pink colour with lively hues. The nose combines aromas of ripe blood-orange, cherry-drops and black currant cordial with fragrant sandalwood whiffs. The gorgeously weighted palate balances juicy fruit flavours of fresh cherry and watermelon with racy acidity and finishes on a pleasantly persistant, zesty note.

Ernie els Big Easy White (chenin blanc)     Price: $18.75    Sale $16.50    Case $192

This wine, made by cellar master Louis Strydom, is Ernie Els' vision to produce excellence, reflecting their respective commitment to quality. The Big Easy White 2013 offers an amazing array of tropical fruits, showing the complexity the Cape has to offer. This wine is crafted in an EASY-drinking, unwooded style. Its big appeal is due to its flavors being so pleasant, refreshing and approachable.

Mulderbosch Chardonnay 2011     Price: $20.25    Sale $17.82    Case $207

Light green golden in appearance. Opulent aromas of ripe peaches and melon mingle with hazelnuts, vanilla pod and touches of marzipan. The richly layered palate has a firm texture, yet retains a citrus like freshness and ends on a lasting, mineral note.

Thelema Mountain Red 2010     Price: $15.75    Sale $13.86    Case $161

A blend of 29% Shiraz, 28% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18%, Grenache, 11% Petit Verdot, 11% Merlot, and 3% Cabernet Franc.   Mountain Red offers Thelema pedigree at a fraction of the price. Generous raspberry, blackberry, currant and plum flavors mingle with notes of earth, black pepper and spice. This approachable, easy-drinking red exhibits soft, supple tannins.

Ernie els Merlot 2010     Price: $24.75    Sale $21.78    Case $253

The Ernie Els 2010 Merlot delivers a real statement; plush, proud and voluptuous, strewn with red and black fruits rather than earthy and green characters. Morello cherries, a hint of fynbos and shards of dark chocolate complete a complex and inviting wine where the dense fruit is balanced by freshness and purity. The 2010 is already smooth, suave and succulent in its youth with the etched tannins support enormous depth and length. The perfect balance and depth will allow at least medium term enjoyment.

Meerlust Pinot Noir 2010     Price: $30.50    Sale $26.84    Case $312

Intense translucent youthful purple-ruby appearance. Very forthcoming perfume on the nose with musk, wild strawberry, cranberry and hints of savoury richness and spice and a pronounced minerality. The palate is medium bodied with pure Pinot Noir fruit flavours of plum and red cherry supported by an ultra-fine, densely textured tannin structure which adds to the volume and vivacity of the wine.

Rudi Schultz Syrah 2010     Price: $30.00    Sale $26.40    Case $306

(92 Points) A ripe, overt style, with lots of mint and briar out front, accompanied by dark mocha and bacon-accented toast, all backed by crushed plum and pastis-soaked blackberry fruit that rumbles through the slightly chunky finish. Best from 2014 through 2018. 500 cases imported. –JM  Wine Spectator Issue: Jun 15, 2013

Rust En Vrede Estate Stellenbosch 2010 Price: $49.50    Sale $43.56    Case $505

Deep crimson Red Color, with aromas of cumin and cassis are supported by fresh blueberries and notes of shortbread on the finish.  Well integrated tannins with lush red fruit give the initial impression. Red licorice and savory flavors carries through on the palate with ample grip on the finish.