An Autumnal Symphony of Scarlet Seduction

Prepare your palate and dust off your fanciest wine glasses (or your favourite mug, no judgment here). The May 2025 Red Edition is here, and it’s redder than your aunt’s cheeks after two glasses and a heated political discussion. This is not just a wine box—it’s an adventure, a love story, a Netflix-worthy drama poured into six bottles of liquid poetry.

Inside, you’ll find a chorus of South African stars—each bottle handpicked to escort you through the highs and sighs of autumn. Whether you’re lighting the braai or lighting a candle to ponder your life choices, this box has a wine for that.

1. Wellington La Cave Cabernet Sauvignon

The Strong, Silent Type

• Nose: Think broody blackcurrants lurking behind a curtain of pencil shavings and cigar box nostalgia. A whiff of leather-bound books in a gentleman’s library.

• Palate: Full-bodied and assertive with dark plum, cassis, and a whisper of mint. Like Barry White in wine form—smooth, deep, and irresistibly persuasive.

• Ageing Potential: 8–10 years, or until your kids are old enough to pour it for you.

• Food Pairing: Roast lamb, rare steak, or anything involving gravy and serious intention.

• Autumn Moment Pairing: Sunday lunch with the family, when you need a wine bold enough to compete with Uncle Peter’s opinions and the noise level of children under 7.

2. Constitution Road Shiraz

The Drama Queen

• Nose: Smouldering spice rack meets dark forest berries. Black pepper, cloves, and the seductive scent of rebellion.

• Palate: Velvety, powerful, and just the right amount of wild. Blackberry compote, smoked bacon, dark chocolate—basically, dessert and dinner had a passionate fling.

• Ageing Potential: 7–12 years. Cellar it or don’t—this wine thrives in the spotlight now or later.

• Food Pairing: Chargrilled ribs, spicy sausages, or that deeply satisfying aubergine bake you pretend is healthy.

• Autumn Moment Pairing: Date night, especially the kind where you cook together, flirt over a chopping board, and forget the garlic bread in the oven.

 3. Creation Pinot Noir

The Enigmatic Muse

• Nose: Wild strawberries, fresh earth, a hint of mushroomy mystery, and the memory of a misty morning walk.

• Palate: Elegant, light-footed, and emotional. Tart cherry, pomegranate, and subtle umami undertones. A Pinot that doesn’t shout but sings.

• Ageing Potential: 5–8 years, or until you’re emotionally mature enough to appreciate a wine that whispers.

• Food Pairing: Duck breast, mushroom risotto, or a well-constructed cheese board.

• Autumn Moment Pairing: A quiet night of introspection. Journal open, jazz playing, and your cat judging you from the armrest.

4. City on a Hill Tinta das Barrocas

The Rebel Philosopher

• Nose: Brambles, wild herbs, and the kind of smoky intrigue usually reserved for indie films or questionable poets.

• Palate: Rustic charm with a cultured edge. Ripe mulberries, dusty spice, and a slightly untamed finish that says, “I’m different, and I like it that way.”

• Ageing Potential: 6–10 years, if you can resist the temptation to uncork the mystery early.

• Food Pairing: Chorizo stew, tapas, or anything involving smoked paprika and soulful conversation.

• Autumn Moment Pairing: A fireside philosophical debate that ends in giggles and second helpings.

5. Ken Forrester Pats Garden Red Blend

The Loyal Crowd-Pleaser

• Nose: Aromas of wild herbs, red berries, and gentle spice rise from the glass with elegant charm.

• Palate: The palate is fresh and supple, offering juicy red fruit layered with savoury depth and soft, refined tannins.

• Ageing Potential: Enjoyable now, it will develop greater complexity and grace over the next 4–6 years.

• Food Pairing: A natural partner to herb-crusted lamb, Mediterranean vegetables, or a rustic charcuterie board.

• Autumn Moment Pairing: A cosy movie night in, preferably with a blanket, slippers, and zero responsibilities.

6. Stellenzicht Thunderstone Red

The Unexpected Charmer

• Nose: Bright cherries, lavender, and that scent of rain on warm stone (yes, petrichor is the official word, but we’re being whimsical here).

• Palate: Juicy and approachable, with the easy swagger of someone who knows they’re a catch. Ripe red fruits, subtle spice, and a silky texture that demands a second sip.

• Ageing Potential: 4–6 years. But why wait when it’s already this charming?

• Food Pairing: Roast chicken, smoky tofu, or gourmet burgers (because it’s a Tuesday and you deserve joy).

• Autumn Moment Pairing: An impromptu braai with friends where no one checks their phone and the fire crackles long after the food’s gone.

Final Word:

The May 2025 Red Edition isn’t just a wine box—it’s a celebration of autumn’s golden light, crisp evenings, and the excuse to wear scarves unironically. Sip slowly, share generously, and may your glass (and heart) always be half-full.