Saxenburg 2007 Guinea Fowl White - 87pts

Saxenburg 2007 Guinea Fowl White (W.O. Coastal Region) South Africa

Availability: Widely available, BCLDS stores, Private wine shops

Cost: $19.99

Alcohol: 13.0%

Date Tasted: November 10th, 2009

Tasting Notes: Saxenburg is a large South African producer who have a number of different lines of wines on offer but few make it Canada. Their Guinea Fowl wines (a red and white blend) do make it over and showcase the unique flavours of the country. In the case of the Guinea Fowl white, it is a blend of two classic South African white varietals: Chenin Blanc and Viognier (68% and 32% respectively) and a tasty one at that.

On the nose this pale gold coloured wines offers medium intensity aromas of fresh citrus and tropical fruits. On the palate you get flavours of tropical fruits, lemon zest and honey dew with a touch of sweetness on the finish. Nice mineral notes and good crispness from medium-plus acidity make it a great match for sparingly spiced light fish. Drink now. - LC

Saxenburg 2006 Guinea Fowl - 87pts

Saxenburg 2005 Guinea Fowl (Stellenbosch, South Africa)

Decanted: 1 hr

Cost: $18.99 (BC Liquor Stores)

Tasting Notes: A lovely blend of 48% Merlot, 28% Shiraz and 24% Cabernet Sauvignon from South African producer Saxenburg. A full flavoured wine like a good Bordeaux, but the peppery Shiraz shines through. Decanted for an hour however, its complexity changed in the glass with further exposure.

Dark purple/red colour with intense smoke, leather and chocolate aromas. Black fruits, pepper and smoked meats on the palate. Intense tannins don't counter the long and satisfying finish.

This wine will pair nicely with game and red meats. A very good bargain at $18.99. - LC