Relive the joys of a summer holiday with this selection of wines perfectly suited for a long, laughter-filled lunch at your family’s favorite getaway. From crisp whites to bold reds and a celebratory bubbly, this collection is as eclectic as the characters gathered around the table.

1. Boschendal Brut Rosé

Region: Franschhoek
Winemaker: Lizelle Gerber
Varietals: Pinot Noir, Chardonnay
Tasting Notes: Elegant and refreshing with aromas of strawberries, raspberries, and rose petals. The palate delivers a fine mousse with a zesty, dry finish.
Food Pairing: Perfect with a platter of fresh West Coast oysters, drizzled with lemon and a touch of Tabasco.
Family Pairing: Your overly enthusiastic varsity graduate nephew, fresh from a philosophy major, waxing poetic about the existential beauty of the bubbles.

2. Kloof Street Old Vine Chenin Blanc 2023

Region: Swartland
Winemaker: Andrea Mullineux
Varietal: Chenin Blanc
Tasting Notes: Lively and textured with notes of pear, quince, and honeycomb, balanced by a crisp minerality.
Food Pairing: A natural match for Cape Malay chicken curry with fluffy yellow rice.
Family Pairing: Your eccentric aunt who insists on “just tasting” the curry 17 times while recounting stories from her yoga retreat in Knysna.

3. Spier Creative Block 2 2023

Region: Stellenbosch
Winemaker: Johan Jordaan
Varietals: Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon
Tasting Notes: Zesty and vibrant with flavors of lime, passion fruit, and a subtle herbal edge. A creamy texture adds sophistication.
Food Pairing: Enjoy with grilled snoek basted in apricot jam, served with a side of potato salad.
Family Pairing: Your cousin who just returned from their gap year in Europe, insisting they’ve had “better fish in Portugal” but can’t stop going back for seconds.

4. Boschendal Nicolas 2022

Region: Stellenbosch
Winemaker: Jacques Viljoen
Varietals: Shiraz, Petit Verdot, Malbec, Cabernet Franc
Tasting Notes: Bold and complex with layers of blackberries, plums, and a touch of spice. Silky tannins provide a polished finish.
Food Pairing: Perfect with a hearty lamb potjie slow-cooked with red wine and rosemary.
Family Pairing: Your dad, who quietly hopes for a post-lunch nap, savoring every sip while pretending not to hear calls for dishwashing duty.

5. D’Aria The Soprano Shiraz 2022

Region: Durbanville
Winemaker: Elizabeth Meyer
Varietal: Shiraz
Tasting Notes: Aromas of black cherry, white pepper, and violets lead to a full-bodied palate with hints of mocha and spice.
Food Pairing: Pair with boerewors rolls topped with caramelized onions and chakalaka.
Family Pairing: Your karaoke-loving uncle, already planning his performance of “Bohemian Rhapsody” after dessert.

6. Brampton Roxton Black Cabernet Sauvignon 2020

Region: Stellenbosch
Winemaker: Etienne Louw
Varietals: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Shiraz
Tasting Notes: Rich and robust with notes of cassis, dark chocolate, and hints of vanilla from oak aging.
Food Pairing: Best with a classic South African braai featuring ribeye steak and charred corn.
Family Pairing: Your tech-obsessed sibling who brought a drone to “capture the moment” and is now directing everyone for the perfect family photo.