One is crisp, one is bold. One is vibrant, one is generous. One is fresh, and one is proudly South African. Two varietals, shining in different ways. Sauvignon Blanc and Pinotage encompass a broad array of flavours and occasions, making them perfect companions to any table. Even more satisfying than savouring these two stalwarts on their own, is finding the perfect pairing for your easter table.
With its bright acidity and flavours that often lean toward citrus, green apple, passion fruit and fresh herbs, Sauvignon Blanc naturally complements lighter, fresher dishes. Salads like the Manor Kitchen’s Modern Day Caprese salad with mozzarella espuma, olive oil powder, bloody maria gel, basil tapioca.
Seafood is perhaps the most classic partner. Grilled prawns with lemon butter, chilled oysters on the halfshell, or Manor Kitchen’s Pan Seared Queen Scallops. Sauvignon Blanc’s freshness cuts through the richness of these dishes, elevating the delicate flavours.
Whilst Sauvignon Blanc might be compared to sunshine in a glass, Pinotage is the perfect companion for April’s looming colder nights. Pinotage’s rich fruit, generous structure, and undertones of coffee and sweet smoke, adores hearty and flavour rich dishes.
To get the obvious out of the way, a South African braai is the natural starting point. Grilled lamb chops, boerewors, or a scrumptious ribeye steak call Pinotage their favourite dining partner. The bold flavours of the Jonkershoek Pinotage stand up and compliment the charred and smoky aromas.
April is the perfect time to unpack the slow-cooker, and Pinotage gives you ample reasons to do so. Beef short ribs, a rich tomato-based stew, or a rich lamb shank elevates the wines fruit, with the structure of the wine balancing the savoury depth of these dishes.
Pinotage’s versatility extends past hearty dishes. Dessert pairings like with beautifully aged cheeses are a classic combination, but The Taphuis Hot Chocolate Pudding with apple compote, rum crème anglaise, salted chocolate, mascarpone ice cream, takes the cake, pun intended.
These two wines tell a story about balance, freshness and richness, elegance and abundance. They remind us that great wine, great food and great company is all about experimentation. So, open a bottle, share a meal and let the conversation flow.
After all, that how the best evenings in Stellenbosch start.
