SOUTH AFRICAN WINE TRENDS

In the June edition of WINE magazine 2007, there is a report on the poll done to find out readers opinions. The following trends have emerged:-

SOUTH AFRICA's BEST WINERY IS

1. Vergelegen
2. Thelema Mountain Vineyards
3. Rustenburg Wines
4. Boekenhoutskloof
5. Hamilton Russel Vineyards

SOUTH AFRICA's BEST EMERGING WINERY

1. Cape Point Vineyards
2. Tokara
3. De Toren Private Cellar
4. Ernie Els wines
5. Sadie Family

SOUTH AFRICA's MOST PREFERRED RED VARIETAL

1. Shiraz
2. Cabernet Sauvignon
3. Pinot Noir
4. Pinotage
5. Merlot

SOUTH AFRICA's MOST PREFERRED WHITE VARIETAL

1. Sauvignon Blanc
2. Chardonnay
3. Chenin Blanc
4. Riesling
5. Semillon

SOUTH AFRICA's SIGNATURE GRAPE VARIETAL

1. Pinotage
2. Chenin Blanc
3. Shiraz

SOUTH AFRICA's FAVOURITE LOCAL WINE REGION

1. Stellenbosch
2. Robertson
3. Franschhoek
4. Constantia
5. Paarl/Wellington

SOUTH AFRICA's FAVOURITE BEVERAGE BESIDES WINE

1. Beer
2. Whisky
3. Brandy
4. Gin
5. Vodka

When asked "Would you give up wine for one year if it would ensure that Jacob Zuma did not become South Africa's next president?" 51% answered YES. One wonders how popular he really is and perhaps this is an indication that wine lovers prefer the "High Road"?