Spice Route Chakalaka (South Africa)

'Chakalaka', a Zulu word for togetherness, in this case denotes this beautiful wine, a red blend that represents its title honourably. A harmonious combination of 26% Syrah,  22% Mataro, 8% Petit Sirah, 11% Carignan, 27% Grenache and 6% Tannat, this wine is well-balanced and complex.

The wine is a deep ruby jewel colour. On the nose, clove and white pepper aromas are followed by juicy black plum fruit, and freshly washed blackberries. Full-bodied and rich, the palate displays well-integrated oakl, and smooth, structured tannins. Chakalaka can also refer to a South African blend of spices, used to add flavour to dishes. The spicy oakiness and amalgamative nature of the wine capture this well.  

The Spice Route winery was established in 1997. It is equipped with modern facilities, but still follows ancient winemaking processes. The wines created here are unique due to the ripe fruits producing bold flavours and a spicy, tannic finish. 

The fruit was hand-harvested and the grapes were destalked and lightly crushed. All fruit was fermented in open concrete fermenters. Manual punch downs were carried out during fermentation. The wines were racked and put in barrel for malolactic fermentation and further ageing. The components matured in seasoned French and American oak for 12 months before blending and further maturation of the final wine in the same old oak barrels.

In the spirit of Chakalaka, serve with a platter of spiced, grilled chicken, spicy vegetable rice and Chakalaka relish.