2011 Mulderbosch Chenin Blanc, Stellenbosch, South Africa                    $13

Stellenbosch, South Africa’s most famous wine region, is home to Mulderbosch Vineyards founded in 1989 just before Nelson Mandela opened the South African wine industry to the world. Mulderbosch is now owned by Terrior Capital, a California investment company lead by Charles Black, a well known wine investor who sees great value in South African wines.

The white selection is Mulderbosch 2011 Chenin Blanc. This is a light, crisp white with a powerful nose of guava, lime and pear. It has a very soft, round  feel mid-palate even with such definitive  fruit-forward first taste.  The finish has a hint of spice so this is an all around great food wine. Partner it with shellfish, grilled tuna, herb roasted chicken, or vegetable stews. Alcohol: 13.5%

2010 Mulderbosch “Faithful Hound” Red Blend,            Stellenbosch,  South Africa                   $22

Mulderbosch 2010 “Faithful Hound.” This is a 5 varietal blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot created as a tribute to Boes,  the loyal dog who kept watch over the Mulderbosch farm for nearly three years after his owner’s death. With almost 50% Cabernet Sauvignon  the medium body of this wine brings well-developed fruit to the forefront. It has a clean, dark cherry and cassis-scented bouquet with just a hint of espresso. On the palate it is medium-bodied but has distinct tannins on the entry. This is a great pairing for beef or duck. Alcohol: 14%