{"title":"The reds I'd buy now","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"vergelegen-mill-race-red-2023","title":"Vergelegen Mill Race Red 2023","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"371\" data-end=\"711\"\u003eFounded in 1700, Vergelegen is one of South Africa’s most historic wine estates, situated near Somerset West on the cooler southeastern slopes of Stellenbosch. The estate’s vineyards benefit from ocean-influenced breezes, varied elevations and a mix of granite and shale soils, helping to produce wines with structure, freshness and detail.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"371\" data-end=\"711\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"713\" data-end=\"1152\"\u003eThe Vergelegen Mill Race Red 2023 is named after the historic water channels that once powered the estate’s original mill. Crafted as an approachable Cape blend, the wine combines classic Bordeaux varieties with Shiraz to create a style that balances ripe fruit with savoury complexity. Careful oak integration and gentle extraction keep the wine polished and accessible while still reflecting Vergelegen’s hallmark restraint and elegance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"713\" data-end=\"1152\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1203\" data-end=\"1258\"\u003eColour:\u003cbr data-start=\"1214\" data-end=\"1217\"\u003eDeep ruby red with youthful purple edges.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1203\" data-end=\"1258\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1260\" data-end=\"1430\"\u003eNose:\u003cbr data-start=\"1269\" data-end=\"1272\"\u003eRipe blackcurrant, plum and red cherry aromas lead the nose, followed by hints of cedar, black pepper, dried herbs and subtle mocha notes from oak maturation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1260\" data-end=\"1430\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1432\" data-end=\"1801\"\u003ePalate:\u003cbr data-start=\"1443\" data-end=\"1446\"\u003eThe Vergelegen Mill Race Red 2023 is medium- to full-bodied with smooth tannins and bright acidity supporting layers of dark berry fruit. Cabernet Sauvignon provides structure, Merlot adds softness and richness, while Shiraz contributes spice and warmth. The palate feels generous without becoming heavy, with a savoury edge adding balance and complexity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1432\" data-end=\"1801\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1803\" data-end=\"1913\"\u003eFinish:\u003cbr data-start=\"1814\" data-end=\"1817\"\u003eClean and lingering, with notes of dark fruit, spice and gentle oak carrying through the finish.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Vergelegen","offers":[{"title":"Red Dry \/ Red","offer_id":45026179547315,"sku":"RW2328BR21","price":156.52,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0713\/5195\/9731\/files\/vergelegen-mill-race-red-2023.jpg?v=1758663247"},{"product_id":"anthonij-rupert-optima-2022","title":"Anthonij Rupert Optima 2022","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"647\" data-end=\"1088\"\u003eAnthonij Rupert Wines is based at the historic L’Ormarins Estate in Franschhoek, where heritage architecture, meticulous viticulture and modern cellar precision come together under the Rupert family wine portfolio. The estate draws on fruit from carefully selected vineyard sites across the Cape, matching grape variety to soil type and climate in pursuit of balance rather than sheer power.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"647\" data-end=\"1088\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1090\" data-end=\"1567\"\u003eOptima has become one of the producer’s flagship reds: a Bordeaux-inspired blend that consistently overdelivers in refinement and drinkability. The style bridges Old World structure with New World fruit generosity, using measured oak maturation and careful blending to create a wine that is polished, layered and reliable from vintage to vintage. For Anthonij Rupert Optima 2022, expect the cooler precision and classical line that strong Cape blends increasingly show.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1618\" data-end=\"1686\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1618\" data-end=\"1686\"\u003eColour:\u003cbr data-start=\"1629\" data-end=\"1632\"\u003eDeep ruby with garnet depth and a youthful, vivid rim.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1618\" data-end=\"1686\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1688\" data-end=\"1820\"\u003eNose:\u003cbr data-start=\"1697\" data-end=\"1700\"\u003eBlackcurrant, dark plum and black cherry lead the aromatics, followed by cedar, cocoa, graphite and subtle baking spice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1688\" data-end=\"1820\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1822\" data-end=\"2113\"\u003ePalate:\u003cbr data-start=\"1833\" data-end=\"1836\"\u003eMedium- to full-bodied with ripe dark fruit at the core and a smooth, composed texture. Fine tannins provide shape without aggression, while fresh acidity keeps the wine focused. Oak is present as structure and seasoning rather than sweetness, adding layers of cedar and spice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1822\" data-end=\"2113\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2115\" data-end=\"2217\"\u003eFinish:\u003cbr data-start=\"2126\" data-end=\"2129\"\u003eLong and poised, finishing on cassis, pencil shaving, savoury herbs and lingering spice.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Anthonij Rupert Wines","offers":[{"title":"750ml Bottle","offer_id":45382664585395,"sku":"RW2228BB24","price":239.13,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0713\/5195\/9731\/files\/AnthonijRupertOptima2022.jpg?v=1774427548"},{"product_id":"morgenster-lourens-river-valley-2021","title":"Morgenster Lourens River Valley 2021","description":"\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMorgenster Wine \u0026amp; Olive Estate is situated on the lower slopes of the Helderberg in Stellenbosch, \u003c\/strong\u003eone of South Africa's most celebrated wine-growing regions. The estate benefits from decomposed granite soils, cooling maritime influences from False Bay and a Mediterranean climate that allows grapes to ripen slowly while retaining freshness and structure. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFounded in the early 18th century and revitalised by the late Italian entrepreneur Giulio Bertrand, Morgenster has built a reputation for producing classically styled Bordeaux blends. The estate's long-standing collaboration with Pierre Lurton of Château Cheval Blanc helped shape its philosophy of combining Old World elegance with Stellenbosch fruit expression. Lourens River Valley is the estate's second Bordeaux-style blend, crafted to be approachable in its youth while retaining the structure and complexity for which Morgenster is known. The wine matured for 18 months in French oak, adding depth without overshadowing the fruit.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eColour:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDeep ruby red with an opaque core and youthful crimson highlights.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNose:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAromatic layers of black cherry, cassis and blackberry lead the bouquet, followed by notes of cedar, tobacco leaf, liquorice, vanilla and gentle spice. As the wine opens in the glass, darker fruit and savoury complexity emerge.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePalate:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMedium- to full-bodied with a silky texture and finely integrated tannins. Ripe black and red fruit flavours are supported by subtle oak spice, fresh acidity and a savoury undertone that adds complexity. Merlot provides generosity and softness, while Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot contribute structure and length.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLong and polished, with lingering notes of cassis, cedar, dark berries and a touch of tobacco spice.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Morgenster Estate","offers":[{"title":"750ml Bottle","offer_id":45501944234163,"sku":"RW2128BB51","price":225.22,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0713\/5195\/9731\/files\/MorgensterLourensRiverValley2021.jpg?v=1778655450"},{"product_id":"zandvliet-shiraz-2024","title":"Zandvliet Shiraz 2024","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSet on the eastern edge of the Robertson Valley near Ashton, Zandvliet Wine Estate has been closely associated with Shiraz\u003c\/strong\u003e for more than half a century and is widely recognised as one of South Africa's pioneering producers of the variety. The estate benefits from warm, sunny days, cool evening temperatures and well-drained limestone-rich soils, helping the grapes develop ripe fruit while retaining freshness. Zandvliet combines generations of experience with modern winemaking, producing wines that express both the richness of the Robertson region and the elegance that has become a hallmark of the estate. Careful oak maturation adds complexity without overshadowing the purity of the fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1191\" data-end=\"1251\" class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1191\" data-end=\"1202\"\u003eColour: \u003c\/strong\u003eDeep ruby red with vibrant crimson highlights.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1253\" data-end=\"1262\"\u003eNose: \u003c\/strong\u003eA generous bouquet of ripe plum and blackcurrant leads the way, followed by cracked black pepper, dark chocolate, sweet spice and a subtle hint of leather.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1422\" data-end=\"1433\"\u003ePalate: \u003c\/strong\u003eMedium- to full-bodied with layers of dark berry fruit, juicy plum and blackcurrant supported by fine-grained tannins. Gentle oak influence adds notes of cocoa and spice, while fresh acidity keeps the wine lively and balanced.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1664\" data-end=\"1675\"\u003eFinish: \u003c\/strong\u003eLong and smooth, lingering with black fruit, pepper, savoury spice and a touch of dark chocolate.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Zandvliet","offers":[{"title":"750ml Bottle","offer_id":45660495642803,"sku":"RW2428SH09","price":138.26,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0713\/5195\/9731\/files\/ZandvlietShiraz2024.jpg?v=1783515295"},{"product_id":"alto-rouge-2024","title":"Alto Rouge 2024","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1504\" data-end=\"1515\"\u003eAlto Wine Estate has been producing renowned red wines on the northern slopes of the Helderberg in Stellenbosch for more than a century. \u003c\/strong\u003eThe vineyards are planted between 100 and 500 metres above sea level on well-drained Hutton and Glenrosa soils, where cooling afternoon breezes from nearby False Bay help the grapes ripen slowly while retaining freshness. This combination of altitude, maritime influence and carefully managed vineyards has become the hallmark of Alto's distinctive style. For the Alto Rouge 2024, each varietal was harvested by hand and vinified separately before spending 14 to 18 months in a combination of French and American oak barrels. The final blend reflects Alto's long-standing philosophy of crafting structured yet approachable red wines that express both the character of Stellenbosch and the individuality of each vintage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1504\" data-end=\"1578\" class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1504\" data-end=\"1515\"\u003eColour: \u003c\/strong\u003eDeep ruby red with youthful intensity and excellent clarity.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1580\" data-end=\"1589\"\u003eNose: \u003c\/strong\u003eInviting aromas of ripe cherry and raspberry lead the way, followed by savoury notes of charcuterie, sumac and subtle spice with a gentle oak influence.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1746\" data-end=\"1757\"\u003ePalate: \u003c\/strong\u003eJuicy red and dark berry flavours fill the palate, supported by firm, well-shaped tannins and fresh acidity. Cabernet Sauvignon provides structure, Shiraz adds richness and spice, while Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot contribute depth and complexity. The result is a medium- to full-bodied blend that remains elegant rather than heavy.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2105\" data-end=\"2116\"\u003eFinish: \u003c\/strong\u003eLong and composed, finishing with lingering ripe cherry, savoury spice and fine, structured tannins.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Alto","offers":[{"title":"750ml Bottle","offer_id":45695014994099,"sku":"RW2428BR12","price":117.39,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0713\/5195\/9731\/files\/AltoRouge2024.jpg?v=1784269077"},{"product_id":"alto-rouge-2024-x-6","title":"Alto Rouge 2024 x 6","description":"\u003cp\u003e6 x Alto Rouge 2024\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wine of the Month","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45706515742899,"sku":"PSXX058086","price":633.91,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0713\/5195\/9731\/files\/AltoRouge2024x6.jpg?v=1784702116"},{"product_id":"peter-falke-cabernet-sauvignon-2023-fwa","title":"Peter Falke Cabernet Sauvignon 2023","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeter Falke Wines is situated on Groenvlei Farm against the foothills of the Helderberg Mountains in Stellenbosch's renowned Golden Triangle. \u003c\/strong\u003eThis celebrated wine-growing area is known for producing Cabernet Sauvignon with depth, structure and excellent ageing potential thanks to its decomposed granite soils, cooling ocean breezes and warm summer days. \u003cspan class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe estate follows a meticulous approach in both the vineyard and cellar. Only the healthiest fruit is selected, with berries sorted by hand before undergoing natural fermentation. Extended skin contact helps build fine, velvety tannins before the wine is matured for around 18 months in French oak barrels. The result is a Cabernet Sauvignon that reflects classic Stellenbosch character while remaining polished and approachable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eColour: \u003c\/strong\u003eDeep garnet with a vibrant ruby rim, showing excellent clarity and concentration.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNose: \u003c\/strong\u003eAromas of blackcurrant, ripe plum and blackberry are layered with violet, cedar, tobacco leaf and subtle notes of liquorice, graphite and well-integrated French oak.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePalate: \u003c\/strong\u003eFull-bodied with generous dark fruit supported by firm yet refined tannins. Flavours of cassis, black cherry and plum are complemented by hints of dark chocolate, cedar and savoury spice. Fresh acidity keeps the wine balanced while the oak adds texture rather than dominance.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish: \u003c\/strong\u003eLong, smooth and persistent, with lingering black fruit, gentle oak spice and a savoury mineral note.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Peter Falke","offers":[{"title":"750ml Bottle","offer_id":45738091610291,"sku":"RW2328CS29","price":303.48,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0713\/5195\/9731\/files\/CabernetSauvignon.jpg?v=1785228924"},{"product_id":"stellenbosch-1679-old-vine-pinotage-2023-fwa","title":"Stellenbosch 1679 Old Vine Pinotage 2023","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStellenbosch 1679 is produced by Koelenhof Wine Cellar, drawing on vineyards in the heart of Stellenbosch, South Africa's most renowned wine region. \u003c\/strong\u003eThe Old Vine Pinotage comes from vineyards approximately 45 years old, rooted in Tukulu and Dresden soils over shale. These mature vines naturally produce lower yields with greater concentration, while Stellenbosch's warm days and cool evening breezes encourage even ripening and preserve freshness. Hand harvesting, careful open-fermenter vinification and 16 months of maturation in French oak barrels result in a Pinotage that expresses both the richness of the variety and the elegance of its origin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eColour: \u003c\/strong\u003eDeep ruby red with excellent colour intensity and a youthful crimson edge.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNose: \u003c\/strong\u003eAromatic layers of ripe black cherry, fresh red cherries and dark berries are complemented by hints of sweet spice, vanilla and subtle oak.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePalate: \u003c\/strong\u003eFull-bodied and generously textured, the palate delivers concentrated flavours of dark cherry, blackberry and ripe plum, supported by notes of mocha, baking spice and well-integrated French oak. Fine tannins and balanced acidity provide structure while allowing the fruit to remain the focus.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish: \u003c\/strong\u003eLong, smooth and savoury, with lingering dark fruit, gentle spice and a touch of cocoa.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Koelenhof","offers":[{"title":"750ml Bottle","offer_id":45738091643059,"sku":"RW2328PT39","price":347.83,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0713\/5195\/9731\/files\/Pinotage.jpg?v=1785228827"},{"product_id":"terra-del-capo-sangiovese-2024","title":"Terra Del Capo Sangiovese 2024","description":"","brand":"Anthonij Rupert","offers":[{"title":"750ml Bottle","offer_id":45742690140339,"sku":"RW2428SA01","price":113.04,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0713\/5195\/9731\/files\/TerraDelCapoSangiovese2024.jpg?v=1785414405"}],"url":"https:\/\/www.wineofthemonth.co.za\/collections\/the-reds-id-buy-now.oembed","provider":"Wine of the Month","version":"1.0","type":"link"}