Wines of South Africa : Finding the “Good” Wine
In todays’ wine landscape, there is a lot of noise coming from wineries about the “good” they are accomplishing. Having a feel good aspect that comes with purchasing a bottle is a huge selling point for many wine estates. While some wineries are making meaningful strides with these initiatives, several just jump on the sustainability bandwagon since the term itself is broad and the easiest to accomplish with small, uncostly actions. So, how do we separate the marketing schemes from honest, charitable campaigns and do-good projects? Without doing investigative research, this process can be quite tricky. However, what I’ve learned about Wines of South Africa, is that they are the region to look to when trying to find a wine that makes a heartfelt, authentic impact.
Here are a few to look for:
With Love From The Cape
A portion of each bottle sold is donated to Dignity Dreams, a NGO charity that keeps young girls and women in South Africa in education longer.
Dignity Dreams manufactures and distributes washable sanitary supplies to young women in disadvantaged and at risk communities. By doing this, girls and young women are able to become significantly empowered by staying in schools during menstruation, and ultimately creating social balance within their communities.
Rascallion Wines also offers a direct donation channel on their website where consumers can purchase a Dignity Dreams washable pads pack.
Try: With Love From the Cape Cabernet Sauvignon 2022
This wine by Rascallion Wines is comes from the W.O. Coastal Region, South Africa. It showcases aw-worthy aromas of blueberries, tobacco, and mint. The palate is well-balanced and shows a complex profile of dried dark berries, dark chocolate, leather dates, and hickory. There’s also delicious smoky, iron, and earthy nuances that lead to a spicy finish. You won’t want to put this one down! It’s perfect for BBQ spicy wings.
Arniston Bay is not only certified vegan and fair trade, it’s a winery that truly backs up its’ environmental and social responsibility claims. To start, a portion of every bottle sold by Arniston Bay is donated to SANCCOB (South African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds). The W.O. Coastal Region winery contributes to the coastal welfare that provides a focus on conservation of the endangered African penguin through a rehabilitation program for the abandoned birds.
Additionally, on top of other neighbourhood contributions, Arniston Bay supports The Arniston Bay Community Trust that offers educational financial assistance locally to those in need living in the lesser privileged fishing community.
Try: Arniston Bay Shiraz 2022
A full-bodied, vegan, fair-trade Shiraz from the W.O. Coastal Region of South Africa. Presenting itself in more of a Syrah style, with a savoury and smoky palate. Indulgent flavours of cured meat and bramble, accompanied by sweet earthy notes and soft tannins. Will pair wonderfully alongside T-bone steak or grilled ribs.
*From now until May 25th, buy a combination of 12 participating wines of South Africa online at LCBO and get FREE delivery.