South Africa out but definitely in!

South Africa may be out of the World Cup but they are definitely in the vino knockout. There is no doubting that their wine popularity will continue to grow in the UK because they have a range of wine styles, regions and producers who are hitting the back of the net consistently. So make initial contact and welcome your palate to the following: Vredenhof Chardonnay 2009, Western Cape, £5.99 is a gentle,dry, straight-forward easy drinking style that will reintroduce Chardonnay to the ABC crew. Stockist: Waitrose. De Grendel Sauvignon Blanc 2009, £9.99 is made in Durbanville, which is close to the coast and Cape Town. This Sauvignon Blanc

has lovely pure grassy, herbaceous and minerally flavours, with balanced but assertive acidity and a high quality finish. Stockist: Oddbins. Check out the accommodation in Constantia and make sure your taste buds run into the classy, cool climate Groot Constantia Sauvignon Blanc 2009, £10.99, a delicious, full bodied and stylish example of how well this varietal performs in South Africa. Stockist: Majestic. Now turn your attention to the

reds and take on the full bodied, well structured, intensely fruity and spicy La Motte Shiraz 2007 £12.99, which is produced in the picturesque town of Franschhoek. Stockist: Majestic and Tesco. If your preference is for a well made medium bodied red with attractive black cherry flavours, soft tannins and subtle spice then Houdamond Pinotage 2008, £8.99, from Stellenbosch is your answer. Stockists: Marks&Spencer and Marks&Spencer online.