“WAKA WAKA” THIS TIME FOR AFRICA

I’m sure you know this Friday is the beginning of the 2010 FIFA World Cup in Johannesburg, South Africa. It’s a great opportunity for South Africans to show the world their beautiful beaches full of lively cafes, restaurants, night clubs, and their wonderful wines.

South Africa is well-known for its old, high end vineyards and fantastic wines, and if you are planning to be there, take advantage of the trip and take time off and drive to Cape Town and wine country. You will love it!

South Africa is famous for its Shiraz which is very rich, intense, and spicy, as well as its Chenin Blanc with its buttered almond, fig, and glazed pear notes.

A month ago, I had the chance to taste some great South African wines here in Atlanta, as Rietvallei Winery was offering a tasting in Inman Park. I really enjoyed their wines, and was surprised to learn that in South Africa most of the vineyards had been there since the beginning of the 20th century!

The Rietvallei Wine Estate is located in Robertson, the Western Cape region in South Africa where their wines are produced from grapes grown on the Estate. They have been known for their Red Muscadel, but also produce Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz and their top Rose “Juanita Rose”, which is actually my favorite.

This dry rose is made from Cabernet, and it has a crisp, berry-like note. Its bright pink color matches the spicy taste, and delivers hints of intense strawberries and cream flavor which makes it hard to forget.

So next weekend surprise your husband, father, or significant other with some South African wine, as I am sure they will enjoy the 2010 FIFA World Cup moving to the rhythm of Shakira’s song with a glass of wine from the Western Cape.

Waka Waka, this time for Africa!