This week I’ve been all about South African wines. On Tuesday I wrote about the 2008 MAN Vintners Chenin Blanc, a bright and refreshing white that’s a great deal at $9.
Today I’m sharing a great red wine from South Africa. It’s a 2007 wine from Neil Ellis called The Left Bank. It too is a great deal — bold and full of flavor for less than $15.
The Left Bank is a red blend from the Western Cape. It’s 57% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Shiraz and 10% Merlot. The wine spent 9 months in a combination of 2nd, 3rd and 4th fill French oak barrels.
The first thing you will notice about The Left Bank is its deep purple-red color. Next you’ll be tempted by the aroma, an inviting mix of red berries and cocoa. When you finally take a sip you’ll discover a palate of juicy dark cherries, boysenberries, plum and warm spice, with layers of caramel, mocha and a hint of black pepper. Present yet gentle tannins give the wine a structural focus and a silky, satisfying finish.
This wine makes a great pairing with steak, lamb or other grilled red meats.
A bottle of the 2007 The Left Bank costs $14.