How to enjoy red wine in summer
As the summer sun warms up, it’s the perfect time to explore the joys of red wine beyond the cooler months. With a few clever tips and delightful pairings, you can elevate summer gatherings and enjoy the rich flavours of your favourite reds. From refreshing light salads to irresistible desserts, let’s dive into how to make the most of red wine during the sunny season!
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Established in 1997, Vilafonté is a collaboration of American and South African winemakers that focuses on producing exceptional wines using traditional methods. Seriously Old Dirt wine blends varietals including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Malbec. This particular blend aims to showcase the unique terroir of the Cape Winelands region, while the name reflects the significance of the ancient soils from which the grapes are sourced. The use of grapes from old vines is a hallmark of this wine, which generally leads to lower yields, but higher quality grapes. The age of the vines contributes to the wine’s concentrated flavours and minerality.
The wine is known for its rich, complex flavours, which exhibit fresh plum, black raspberry, mulberry, ripe strawberry, chocolate, and spicy notes. A line of fresh acidity adds energy to this medium-bodied wine. Soft, silky tannins are well integrated, allowing immediate enjoyment, while a balanced structure will allow gracious cellaring.
Seriously Old Dirt wine was designed for ageing. This allows the flavours to deepen and integrate over time. It has received positive reviews from wine critics and enthusiasts alike, often noted for its balance, complexity and expressive character. This festive season, Seriously Old Dirt by Vilafonté will be available in a 1.5-litre magnum that's perfect for sharing.
Red wine is usually the go-to for wine enthusiasts during the winter months, but with the right pairings, this medium-bodied wine can be enjoyed in the summer, too. Here are some delicious pairings to enjoy this season:
1. Wine-poached pears
As the festive season rolls in, there's nothing quite like indulging in the sweet delight of wine-poached pears, perfectly infused with warm spices such as cloves, anise cinnamon, and nutmeg. These luscious pears pair beautifully with the rich, earthy notes of Seriously Old Dirt by Vilafonté. Imagine the harmony of flavours as you enjoy this light dessert alongside a glass of this exceptional red. The wine's bold fruitiness and subtle spice make it a fantastic match for creamy and hard cheeses cheeses or dark chocolate, bringing a touch of luxury to holiday gatherings.
Get the recipe for wine-poached pears here.
2. Braaied rib-eye steak with salsa verde
The rich, juicy character of a well-cooked steak complements the wine’s dark fruit notes (such as blackberry and plum) and its inherent tannins. The char from the grill adds a smoky quality that enhances the wine's complexity.
3. Roast sweet potato with crispy harissa chickpeas
The caramelised flavours from roasted vegetables add a sweet, smoky component that pairs well with the wine’s dark fruit notes. The creaminess from the labneh in this roast veg salad also enhances the wine’s mouthfeel and richness.
roast sweet potato and chickpea salad here
4. Spanish tapas platter
The salty, savoury nature of cured meats elevates the wine's fruitiness and brings out its inherent spicy notes. The variety of flavours allows for a dynamic pairing that keeps evolving with each bite.
5. Creamy mushroom conchiglie
Earthy mushrooms enhance the wine's complex profile, while the creamy texture of the pasta complements the wine's velvety tannins and adds richness to the overall experience.
With these dishes, you’ll create a memorable summer dining experience that pairs beautifully with Seriously Old Dirt wine, making festive gatherings a real treat!
Browse our cooking with alcohol recipe guide here.
This Cabernet Sauvignon-led blend initially greets with a vibrant expression of fruit. Palate entry is smooth, luxuriously coating with a silky texture from the fore-palate, broadening on the mid-palate and finishing with layered richness. A line of fresh acidity adds energy to this medium-bodied wine. Soft, silky tannins are well integrated, allowing immediate enjoyment, while a balanced structure will allow gracious cellaring. Matured for 18 months in French oak, Seriously Old Dirt 2021 consists of Cabernet Sauvignon (88%), Malbec (8%), Merlot (2%) and Cabernet Franc (2%).
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