Two Oceans Wines From South Africa

There is a certain indescribable something about the wines of South Africa. Yes, the flavors of each variety are familiar as are the aromas and yes the varieties are identical to those grown in most winemaking countries on this planet. So why buy wines from one country over another; a merlot from South Africa is the same as one from Chile which is identical to one from California and is a replica of one from Australia; a merlot is still a merlot; right? Wrong, wrong and very wrong. That is where place of origin on the label comes in.
The factors that effect the final properties of a wine could fill a book; a very large book. The wines of Argentina and Chile are influenced by the soil and the mineral laced water that runs off the Andes Mountains. California wines are endowed with an exceptional fruitiness. South African wines reflect the warmed arctic winds that blow across that nation. And the differences go on and on ad infinitum.
We had an opportunity to sample the South African wines of Two Oceans Vineyards. While the wines are the familiar varieties, their South African birthplace endows them with a character and charm of their own. It is a softness that wraps itself around the flavor and aroma which captures the imagination of all who sample them. If you are assuming that we are partial to South African wines, the answer is a resounding yes.

Two Oceans 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon ($8.99). The Two Oceans 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon is a wine made in the classical style with no short cuts taken in its production up to and including aging in oak barrels. There are none of the harsh tannins (the element that gives many red wines a mouth puckering effect) and the fruit is presented right up front. Those up front flavors are of black cherries and red berries with a pleasing under-flavor of oak. These continue on to the very fruity finish. Please do not be fooled by its very affordable price; this wine is in no way a “cheap” knockoff.

Two Oceans 2010 Sauvignon Blanc ($8.99). All too often sauvignon blanc wines are relegated solely to the position of “the” wine to accompany shellfish. The Two Oceans 2010 Sauvignon Blanc takes on tropical fruit attributes not often associated with this variety. The aroma is a feast of tropical fruits accenting gooseberries and fig. The flavor continues with the gooseberry which is amplified by an undertone of mangos. This wine lives in the best of two worlds: it can well accompany shellfish, but will also fit well with any of the lighter meats such as pork, lamb and veal, as well as salads and poultry dishes.

Two Oceans 2009 Merlot ($8.99). the Two Oceans 2009 Merlot is a fine example of the quality that can be obtained in a South African wine and at a very reasonable price. This wine displays a vibrant ruby red color and the prominent aroma of ripe cherries and plums wrapped in the soft robe common to all of the Two Oceans wine. These aromas are mirrored in the flavor and are enhanced by a near perfect acid balance. What we have to say about this wine is simple and to the point; try it; you’ll love it.

Two Oceans 2009 Shiraz ($8.99). Let us start with Australia’s most popular wine, shiraz and then grow it halfway around the globe. The climate and soil in South Africa is totally different from that of Australia so there will be a difference in the grapes and thus the wine. A South African shiraz takes on a subtle softness and fuller flavor than its Australian cousin. The deep ruby color announces a full and inviting cherry and oak aroma, which in turn invites the first sip. The flavor is clean and soft with absolutely no rough edges or harsh tannin. There are hints of red summer berries mingling with a soft and interesting oak background.