Cape Wine Master and Woolworths’ wine selector for over 20 years, Allan Mullins provides his pick of the month’s best bunch of wines… the Dombeya Altus 2007.
A shooting star among the stellar wineries along the Annandale Road outside Stellenbosch is Dombeya Wines and, along with sister winery, Haskell Vineyards, they are already producing wines to rival the established greats in the area.
WHERE: Owners, Preston Haskell and Grant Dodd, have set out to produce wines of "outstanding quality, ageing potential and great value for money" and they have achieved this in their superb new red blend, Dombeya Altus 2007.
WHAT: Cabernet Sauvignon is the backbone, Merlot softens and adds fruit and 4% Malbec rounds out the blend with a subtle, dark-fruited tang.
HOW: The oaking is meticulous with an intricate selection of barrels, displaying the flair of consultant winemaker, Rianie Strydom.
NOSE: A shimmering ruby-violet colour leads to an intense nose with layers of black plum, ripe blueberry and chocolate.
TASTE: The palate has depth with a generous texture, and a long succulent finish.
FOOD: It is a good partner for many meat dishes - try it with game steak with mushroom sauce or, for a hearty vegetarian option, stuffed vegetables with lentil rice, pine nuts and parsley.
Don't miss our article on wine suggestions with steak and mushroom sauce
For a real treat go to the restaurant on the farm, Long Table at Haskell, and revel in the mellow mountain views as you enjoy it with one of their signature dishes: Free Range Duck Breast: crusted with honeyed nuts, coffee infusion, sweet potato and Gorgonzola bake.
Staying in? We recommend roast duck with potatoes and plum sauce.
PRICE: R120 per bottle; www.dombeya.co.za (price correct as of July 2012)
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