Christine

Buitenverwachting is one of the oldest wineries in the Constantia Valley – a cool coastal region south of Cape Town, which is influenced by the Atlantic and the Indian Ocean at the same time. The Christine is the flagship of the estate: a Bordeaux cuvée that shows what this comparatively cool location can achieve with Cabernet-dominated assemblages.

In the glass, aromas of dark cherry and black currant appear, underlaid by tobacco, cedar wood, and a hint of chocolate. The aging in French barriques gives the wine structure without overwhelming it – the tannins are present but fine-grained, the fruit remains clear and lively. The finish is long, slightly spicy, with a pleasant freshness that is typical for Constantia.

• Food: Rack of lamb with rosemary, beef fillet, mature hard cheese
• Temperature: 16–18 °C