Wine Menu

Wine Menu is a specialist, boutique wine store in Kramerville, Johannesburg. We focus on sourcing t Join our journey of discovery and widen your wine horizons!
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Our aim at Wine Menu is to make sure each customer knows more about wine after every interaction with us – whether it is through a visit to our shop; tastings at our regular wine-shows and masterclasses or visiting our website. Follow our calendar of events on this page or simply connect through any of our social media platforms to find out what we are pouring next. We now offer a selection of win

es through our online shop but we would like to encourage you to visit us on a regular basis and widen your wine horizons. Wine Menu owner, Corlien Morris has been determined to help people explore new wines since she opened this specialist wine shop in Johannesburg in 2013.

01/11/2024

BIG Bottle Friday, from a magnum of a man

Bigger is always better, especially when it comes to bottles.
There’s nothing that says, you’re a great mate, better than arriving with a big bottle at a braai for two.
It also happens to be the time of year when a few gift ideas are welcome. Make it a magnum.
And then, we can go on and on about how bigger format bottles are better for aging that special wine a few extra years. And we have something very special for you today.

Rall White 2023 – Magnum, that’s 1,5 lt

This blend of 71% Chenin Blanc, 26% Verdelho and 3% Viognier started it all for Rall Wines back in 2008. It is now already in its 16th vintage, and remains the cornerstone of what Donovan does. No other wine in the portfolio has achieved the same level of consistency year on year since inception, and this 2023 vintage is yet another beauty. The grapes are still mainly from the ancient granitic soils of the Paardeberg, and now also contains a big portion of fruit from the oldest vineyard Donovan works with, planted in 1969. All components are fermented naturally and matured separately in a combination of 2000L Foudre, seasoned small French oak, concrete eggs and amphora before blending and bottling after 10 months with minimal filtration.

Rall Red 2022 – Magnum, yes another 1,5lt

A blend of 78% Syrah, 12% Grenache, 7% Carignan, and 3% Cinsault. It delivers exceptional complexity of spice and juicy fruit. Purple and red fruit, herbs, olives and white pepper from the wholebunch fermentation, with a clean focused palate.
100% wholebunch fermented and matured in a combination of 3000L Foudre, concrete, and old French oak for 10 months before being bottled unfined and lightly filtered, and then given a further 18 months bottle maturation before release. This red wine will drink well now, but should no doubt reward patience and only gain drinkability and complexity over the next decade or more.

Go on, you deserve it. It’s summer and a giant bottle from a gentle giant goes a long way.

31/10/2024

From three generations of winemaking stock, Adi was destined to be the best. Time in the Rhône Valley in France, New Zealand, and as winemaker at Rustenberg, polished his talent before he (along with his cousin) bought his humble vineyard in the Paardeberg complete with gnarled vines and a run-down winery.

AA Badenhorst Kalmoesfontein Red Blend

An interesting blend of 33% Shiraz, 25% Grenache, 14% Cinsault, 12% Tinta Barocca, 8% Mataro, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Touriga Nacional.
Small parcels of selected fruit are sourced from seven vineyards on our Kalmoesfontein farm and from our neighbours with good tasting grapes. The 2021 vintage was characterised by togetherness, if one word should describe it. The fruit, the tannins and the pedigree of the vineyards married together very well in this wine.

AA Badenhorst Kalmoesfontein White Blend

Small parcels of selected fruit is sourced from various vineyards on the Badenhorst farm called Kalmoesfontein located in the Swartland area and the greater Paardeberg mountains. This wine is made up of a fantastic blend of Chenin Blanc; Roussanne; Grenache Blanc; Viognier; Verdehlo; Colombard; Semillon; Clairette Blanche and Palomino.

These cool blends are now available through Wine Menu online and in-store.

PS…there is lovely offer running on these for the month of November

30/10/2024

Saturday Sipping Session – Kaapzicht Wines
November 2 @ 11:00 am - 2:00 pm

Free to join for all over 18s

This Saturday we will be enjoying the magical wines of Kaapzicht.

In 1946, a man created a home by planting a vineyard. That man is now the great-grandfather of the winemaker today. They craft wines with a sense of belonging, creating moments of purity and concentration. Danie Steytler Jnr has been making waves with his pure and classic wines, yet following in the footsteps of his dad, who was a leader in the creation of Pinotage blends in South Africa.

Having worked in Italy, Greece, Germany, St Émilion, New Zealand, Napa Valley and Sweden, Danie Jnr returns to Kaapzicht. Clearly heralding great things to come, the Steytler Pinotage 2006 wins Decanter’s best red wine in the world, cementing Kaapzicht’s position as one of the top Pinotage producers in South Africa. Both familiar and extraordinary.

We will be tasting:

Pinotage Rosé 2024

Kliprug Chenin Blanc 2023

Skraalhans Pinotage 2023

Bottelary Hills Estate Red Blend 2021

29/10/2024

More Tastings at Wine Menu this summer
Getting ready for warmer weather with some cool climate Strandveld, Gifting season calls for an iconic wine like Glenelly Lady May and no celebration is complete without Champagne.
We've got you covered with all of these and more.🍷 - https://mailchi.mp/winemenu/tastings-13870264

29/10/2024

What is Grower Cru Champagne?

Come learn more about it on November 22 @ 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm

Grower Champagne is a type of sparkling wine (Champagne) that is grown, vinified, and aged by a specific grape grower and his/her family. This means that the winemaker cultivates the vineyards, harvests the fruit, and produces the wines with his/her own hands.

The category represents the farmer & the artisan, fine bubbly that better reflects a sense of place & individuality, with an emphasis on viticulture so often overlooked by the mass-produced ‘big’ brands.

In the world of big brands, with inevitably big marketing budgets, the smaller producers are often overlooked, or not even noticed at all. At Wine Menu we have always had the philosophy of seeking the wines that speak of a place, wines with integrity, where every step of the process can be traced. Therefore the idea of grower champagne fits perfectly into our ethos.

Join us on a journey to celebrate the rise of Grower Champagnes, not on the big market radars, with Tom Prior

We’ll be tasting the following wines:
 Champagne Monmarthe NV Secret de Famille Ludes 1er Cru Brut NV Champagne Monmarthe 2017 Les Mont Joyeux Ludes 1er Cru Blanc de Blancs Brut Champagne Pierre Gerbais 2018 Celles-sur-Ource ‘Grains de Celles’ Extra Brut Champagne Laherte-Freres NV Ultradition Extra Brut Champagne Laherte-Freres NV Blanc de Blancs Brut Nature Champagne Laherte-Freres NV Rose de Meunier Champagne Vazart-Coquart NV Chouilly Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs Brut Reserve Champagne Vazart-Coquart NV Chouilly Grand Cru Brut Rose.

Seats are limited for this tasting, therefore booking is essential.

28/10/2024

Miles Mossop Sam 2021, the 4th release of this exceptional expression of Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon, named after his equally elegant wife. It’s Mile’s father, Tony, who had a great love for Bordeaux and Italian reds, who instilled the same affinity in Miles.

“Not many people get powerful elegance right. Miles nailed it with this 2021 Sam“ - Corlien’s reaction at the recent launch tasting.

SAM 2021 is a blend of 93% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Merlot and 3% Petit Verdot from carefully selected vineyards around Stellenbosch to provide the perfect expression of Cabernet Sauvignon, of which only 1881 bottles were produced. The Cabernet Sauvignon is from a vineyard in the Polkadraai Hills, yielding grapes that contribute finesse, perfume and a fine tannin structure.

The 2021 vintage, shaped by cool, extended ripening conditions, led to a wine that is both bold and elegant, promising excellent aging potential. We suggest cellaring this wine for a few years to allow it time to develop its true potential. Previous vintages have proved this already and with such a near perfect vintage as 2021 it’s even more important.

28/10/2024

Cool Climate Strandveld with cellarmaster Conrad Vlok

November 7 @ 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm
R280.00 per person.

Where earth and ocean meets, there lies the magic of Strandveld.
Strandveld Vineyards is a beautiful wind-swept winery located 9km from the sea. Situated between Elim and Cape Agulhas, it is the southernmost winery on the continent of Africa. This part of our fair Cape is characterised by cooling Atlantic winds, billowing mist and below average temperatures. A unique combination of maritime climate, alternating sites and diverse mineral rich soil types work together to create this unique terroir.
The story began in 2001, when a group of enthusiastic wine lovers took to navigational maps, in search for potential new vineyard sites. We think they might have been underestimating the blistering winds at the time, but if they were more cautious, the entire Agulhas Triangle of winegrowers probably would not be where they are today. The area under vine has grown substantially over the past 2 decades and many winemakers seeking grapes from this special place. Strandveld now has 80ha under vine, planted to varieties that can handle the harsh conditions and thrive in the mineral rich soils.

Conrad has a close affinity to the terroir, vineyards and naturally, the cellar. When he is not working in the vineyards or slaving away in the cellar blending art and science, you can be sure to find him trekking in the veld or braving the wild Atlantic off Cape Agulhas in his sea kayak.

Join Conrad Vlok for a tutored tasting of the magnificent wines of Strandveld.

Jump to our website to book now and view the full list of wines.

25/10/2024

Top Scoring Wines released in time for festive season - https://mailchi.mp/winemenu/new-releases-october24

24/10/2024

We had the privilege of tasting the latest vintages from this week with the ever joyous Franco Lourens himself at .

Franco, a rising star in the SA wine scene, although many of us have followed him since he started this solo venture in 2016. Formerly the assistant winemaker to the legendary Chris Alheit at Alheit Vineyards, Franco continues to be inspired by many talented winemaker friends, who we consider the best of the best in the business.

It all started with Howard John, named after his dad, who believed in him and encouraged Franco to follow his own path. The first vintage was 100% Carignan, but over the years, as Franco was exposed to more vineyards, the blend evolved. 2023 is a blend of Grenache, Cinsaut and Syrah, showing spice, white pepper and floral elegance.

Lindi Carien, his wife, needed an engagement ring, which was the drive behind the first vintage of 100% Verdelho. This wine has seen the most growth in quality over the years, ranking as one of SA’s best examples of Cape Whites. 2023 is Chenin Blanc, Verdelho and Grenache Blanc showing tight citrus notes and aromatic white stone fruit. Truly a wine that can only be made in the Cape.

It’s no secret that Corlien is completely in love with Lua Ilse, the Grenache Noir from dryland bushvines in the Piekenierskloof. The wine is precise and elegant, with dried rose petals, a touch of spice and clean fruit core. Just such a joy to drink.
Skuinskap Chenin Blanc also hails from Piekenierskloof and as the name suggests the vineyard is trellised more like table grapes than the more common bushvine or trellis systems. This creates shade over the bunches in the harsh summer sun and contributes to the slower ripening and flavour development. The wine shows dusty chalky notes, cumin spice, dried apricots and a touch of caramel on the finish. Just wordclass Chenin.
It’s such a delight to be able to sell these wines from our shelves and online.

23/10/2024

Saturday Sipping Session – Eenzaamheid Wines
October 26 @ 11:00 am - 2:00 pm

Free to join for all over 18s.

Join us in tasting a selection of Eenzaamheid’s wines, including the award winning Chenin Blanc and Shiraz.

This is an amazing farm that has been around for 320 years in Agter-Paarl. In Dutch, the name means ‘solitude’, and is a reference to the property’s isolation from Cape Town when the farm was named in 1693 – a time when a journey of 60km required a good horse if the rider wanted to arrive within a day.

Janno Briers-Louw is the current custodian of Eenzaamheid, where he produces award-winning wines from old dryland vineyards. He is the first of his family to produce wines under the farm’s own name with the first vintage in 2010. Prior to that all grapes were sold to cooperatives and other producers like Fairview and Perdeberg. Janno became a Cape Wine Master in 2016, and with that confirmed his love for all things viti and vini.

We’ll be enjoying:
Vin Blanc 2024
Chenin Blanc 2023
Shiraz 2021
Pinotage 2022

See you Saturday.

22/10/2024

The profoundest facet of wine, beyond its flavour, is when and where it can be utterly unique – otherwise all the wine in the world might as well come from a single factory in France (or Taiwan). Angus Paul Wines looks to identify that which makes South Africa unique; combining its old rocks, atavistic gees and quasi-indigenous varietals to produce wines that could only come from the windy Cape. – This is the philosophy of Angus Paul.
He makes all his wine in the custom crush facility at Karibib farm on the Polkadraai Hills, overlooking False Bay. In fact a fair amount of the grapes he uses also comes from this rather famous little hill outside Stellenbosch.
Corlien and Brian recently visited Karibib farm and tasted the wines of Angus Paul with the man himself. The labels each have a unique story and the wine inside is truly exceptional.

Today we focus on Barbary Fictions Chenin Blanc 2023, from Bottelary. Just over the hill from Karibib. Here the grapes result in wines with slightly broader shoulders.
Hand-picked grapes, no added sulphur, yeast, or water—just pure, natural winemaking. After 11 months in neutral oak barrels with no racking or fining, this Chenin Blanc is bursting with character.

Tasting notes? Think rich lemongrass, cut apple, and yellow citrus on the nose. On the palate, it’s like biting into a crunchy apple, but with a round, balanced freshness that keeps you coming back for more.

Available online and in-store with Wine Menu Kramerville.

21/10/2024

The perfect duo for Mondays moody weather in Joburg.

Oak Valley Groenlandberg Chardonnay 2022 & Groenlandberg Pinot Noir 2022

The Groenlandberg is an isolated, fynbos covered, cloud catching mountain that forms the backdrop of the Oak Valley Estate. The terroir of these wines with its Bokkeveld Shale rich in clay soils, the cool climate of the Elgin Valley, the high altitude and gentle winemaking practices only a stones throw from the vineyard, is what gives this wine its character and depth of fruit. Wines that truly reflect the place where they are grown.

The Chardonnay has Typical Elgin oyster shell is there but slightly less prominent in this sunny vintage with very prominent fruit aromatics. The nose has abundant tangerine, fresh apricot and some green apple. On the palate you will find blood orange and yellow peach. There is good weight and concentration but the abundant cool climate acidity provides focus and length to the wine.

The Groenlandberg Pinot Noir is sourced from a selection of south-facing vineyards situated between 430m and 470m above sea level. There is minimal intervention in the cellar. Whole-bunch fermentations, gentle punch downs and a careful approach to oak maturation, create a delicate Pinot that expresses wonderful fruit and a strong sense of place.

Both wines are now available online and in-store at Wine Menu Kramerville

18/10/2024

✨Friday calls for bubbles, and what better way to celebrate than with the crème de la crème of Colmant – an elegant expression of distinctive excellence.

Colmant Blanc de Blancs, crafted from Chardonnay sourced from the finest vineyards in Franschhoek, Elgin, Hemel-en-Aarde, and Robertson, embodies the true art of winemaking. Staying true to the Colmant house style, 15% of the base wine is barrel-fermented, with 20% specially selected from previous harvests, ensuring depth and complexity. Aged on the lees for an impressive 45 to 48 months, this wine is ready to enjoy now or to be savoured as it matures over the next four to five years.
Delicate, refined, and bursting with freshness – this Blanc de Blancs is the ultimate expression of Chardonnay excellence.

Slide to see pics of Corlien and Brian’s recent visit
Thank you to Paul, who is at the helm of all things bubbly at the winery. Lovely to also meet Kalissa de Kok, who is Paul’s right hand, and has a very bright bubbly future. We’re looking forward to following your journey.

Cheers to a sparkling Friday✨

17/10/2024

Lowerland Tieroog Tannat Rosé 2023

Rosé all day with this cool little wine from the banks of the Orange River.

Lowerland is a regenerative family farm on the banks of the Orange River, between Prieska and Niekerkshoop in the expansive Northern Cape Province of South Africa. Here Bertie Coetzee farms from soil to soul to produce an assortment of delicious, nourishing, and authentic foodstuffs. They grow a variety of animals, annual and perennial crops with a focus on regenerative agriculture, holistic design and diversity throughout the system.

The tannat vineyard is planted close to the river, resulting in cooler evenings. Along with the high altitude, limestone soil and continentality this makes for a rosé with a lip smacking acidity, gentle saline drive and even subtler savoury finish. Combined with a fruit bouquet of mulberry, litchi and a hint of vanilla, the result is a refreshing and complex rosé experience. Enjoy with a meal or by itself, on the stoep or at the beach house to kick off your lazy summer evening dinner.

Available online and in-store with Wine Menu Kramerville.

17/10/2024

More Tastings at Wine Menu this October🍷
The Wessels family from Hemel en Aarde is visiting to show their new Restless River wines.
Franco Lourens is presenting his new vintages, including the limited Lua Ilse Grenache Noir from Piekenierskloof
Click the links to book your seat - https://mailchi.mp/winemenu/tastings-13868916

16/10/2024

Saturday Sipping Session – Meinert Wines

October 19 @ 11:00 am - 2:00 pm Free to join for all over 18s.

Meinert Wines is a boutique premium wine producer located in the picturesque Devon Valley within the Stellenbosch Region of the Western Cape of South Africa.
Devon Crest Farm was purchased in 1987 by Martin Meinert. The property was known at the time only as Remainder of Farm 78, District of Stellenbosch, and had been planted to Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinotage in 1975.

The logo of an eagle with a writing quill in one claw and tastevin in the other is entirely fictitious. This logo and other symbols, as well as labels and even wine names have been creatively borrowed from the Meinert family’s short but rich printing history in Namibia. The family had used the German Master Guild of Printers’ eagle as a symbol for the sports teams of their printing company. Circling birds of prey are also a feature of the Devon Crest vineyard, and they set about simplifying and adapting the rather fierce martial style eagle to suit their vinous ends.

We’ll delight in these wines:

Meninert Sauvignon Blanc 2023
Meinert Merlot 2019
“The Graduate” Syrah 2019
“The German Job” Riesling 2023

See you on Saturday!

15/10/2024

Restless River New Vintages with the Wessels Family
October 28 @ 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm
R350 per person.

Restless River is home to Burgundian style Chardonnay and lean Cabernet Sauvignon in the Upper Hemel-en-Aarde appellation.
 Here Craig and Anne Wessels have, since 2004, steadily stuck to their guns with the way they farm, and the way they work in the cellar. The soils are uniquely granite-based with rocky iron rich clay and they experience true cool climate conditions, a mere 5km from the ocean. All of this contribute to elegant wines with remarkable balance and focus.
Craig is committed to absolute site expression and a minimalist approach. Each vineyard on their farm is registered as a Single Vineyard and the wines are named after the vineyards. For this reason, all wines are single variety expression of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon.

They have invested in new plantings and re-planting of vineyards, on their own farm, and the neighbouring farm, over the last few years. This year we see the release of the first Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from these new vineyards. Son Luke, who the Pinot Noir is named after, is also joining the business and will be joining Craig and Anne at our tasting. A pretty solid chip off the old block.

The following wines will be tasted in a tutored format. Snacks are served from 5:30pm and tasting starts promptly at 6pm.

Hop to our website for the full list of wines to be poured on the evening (including a treat from their private Library)

Seats are limited book online to secure your seat today.

14/10/2024

(Very) Big Bottle Monday.

The Sadie Family Palladius 2022 3Lt

(Its so big we needed multiple photos)

Each bottle individually packed in branded wooden box.

Over the past 5 years Palladius has been the wine that grew the most in quality and refinement and much of this has to do with the addition of more vineyards and the improvement of their viticulture. Currently of all the wines, Palladius, with 17 vineyards, obviously represents the biggest canvas of the Swartland.
14 vineyards on Paardeberg, 1 in Piketberg and 2 near St Helena Bay Chenin Blanc, Grenache Blanc, Clairette Blanche, Viognier, Verdelho, Roussanne, Marsanne, Semillon Gris, Semillon Blanc & Palomini, Colombard.

The 2022 starts by almost playing hide-and-seek; the wine is more reserved and holding back. And only after warming up and a couple of minutes in the glass does the conversation start. The aromas are that of green apple and citrus flint, and then some of the stone fruit aromas begin to shine through. The wine needs time. The palate is already balanced, and the acidity is met by very firm tannins. The aftertaste is lingering. This bottling is a great vintage to follow the 2021. It is a strong contender for the most restrained version, but we must taste 2021 and 2022 with some age to have a final verdict. As always, it is suggested to age the wine for a minimum of 4-6 years.

Let your big bottles rest with Wine Boxd

11/10/2024

It’s time to get colourful on a Friday.

Hello to the new vintages of Intellego.

Jurgen has been on the cutting edge of the South African wine scene for over ten years. The Intellego label is found in funky little wine bars and progressive restaurants all over the world.

“Our philosophy remains minimal intervention during the winemaking process and the wines are a celebration of the hard work done in the vineyard. For us it is intuitive winegrowing, an evolution through experimentation on small pockets of land selected in the Swartland Appellation.” – Jurgen Gouws

A selection of Intellego wines are now available online and in-store at Wine menu Kramerville.

09/10/2024

Saturday Sipping Session – Villiera Wines
October 12 @ 11:00 am - 2:00 pm Free to join for all over 18s.

Villiera is a leading South African producer of award-winning Cap Classique and still wines. Since producing their first Cap Classique in 1984, they have been pioneers in the category bringing excitement and recognition to bottle fermented wines in South Africa. Cousins Jeff and Simon Grier started the farm outside Stellenbosch in 1983 and started with extensive replanting of classic varieties. Over time the family efforts established Villiera as one of the largest private wineries in the country.
Fantastic investment came in 2021, when the property was sold to Iwayini, the South African sudsidiary of GCF (Grands Chais de France). GCF is a family-owned company run by the Helfrich family and one of France’s largest wine producers. The Grier family however is still very much involved in the business for now, working along the French group to grow and improve the operation even more. What a great feather in the cap for the Grier family.
Come and taste the following wines with us this Saturday.
Pearls of Nectar Rosé Cap Classique
Monro Brut Cap Classique 2015
Jasmine Fragrant White 2022
Monro Merlot 2020

See you Saturday!

08/10/2024

Healing people and the environment with Wellness Wines and Regenerative Viticulture.

These are the rules Mark Stevens follow on a daily basis. Thriving vineyards, bursting with life, are the heart of his philosophy, he says. His goal is to craft beautiful, natural wines that showcase the unique character of the Walker Bay. He achieves this by minimal intervention in the cellar, and using Zero added Sulphites, letting the grapes and the land speak for themselves.

Hinterlands Cool climate Syrah 2022 impressed us at a recent tasting.

This wine follows the philosophy of blending three exceptional vineyards each planted to different soils and with their own climatic influences. The three wards are Sondagskloof, Stanford Foothills and Klein River Lagoon. Grapes underwent spontaneous fermentation, with 25% whole bunch component. It deserved extended maceration which has led to wonderfully soft and luscious tannins, deep and dark fruit flavours along with a characteristic fynbos backdrop. Matured for a further 11 months in older 225L French oak barrels before bottling.
Beautiful dense fruit flavours with touch of black olives and pepper spice on the palate and clean long grippy finish.
Now available online and in-store with Wine Menu Kramerville

07/10/2024

Newton Johnson new vintages with both brothers

October 15 @ 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm

R350per person.

Newton Johnson Vineyards is synonymous with Chardonnay and Pinot Noir and more specifically from the Upper Hemel en Aarde appellation.
Gordon Newton Johnson has been at the winemaking reins since 1999. Some can call it luck that he met Nadia, from a 6th generation winemaking family, and not only convinced her to join the family but also the winemaking team. Together they test each other’s ideas to the finest detail and of course drink as much Burgundy as possible.

Brother Bevan Newton Johnson, is the man behind the clever sales plans and plays an integral roll in decision making and developing this family farm. He might tell you all sorts of stories about surfing, but he is also a master storyteller about their wines, the soils and the cool climate that makes this family farm so special.
Join us for this special tasting of the new vintages, with both brothers presenting their passion for the cool Hemel & Aarde Valley.

Newton Johnson 2023 Albarino
Newton Johnson 2023 Family Vineyards Chardonnay
Newton Johnson 2023 Family Vineyards Pinot noir
Newton Johnson 2023 Single Vineyard Windansea Pinot noir
Newton Johnson 2023 Single Vineyard Seadragon Pinot noir
Newton Johnson 2022 Family Vineyards Falkirk Grenache
Newton Johnson 2022 Family Vineyards Falkirk Syrah
Newton Johnson 2022 Family Vineyards Falkirk Mourvèdre

Reserving a tickets is essential as seats are limited

04/10/2024

In South Africa, Malbec is most commonly used as one of five varietals in a red Bordeaux blend.
On Dornier the wine made from this grape with its thick-skinned berry and green flesh tends to be full and juicy with aromas of dark berries and plum with hints of violet that is typical of the varietal. The palate is rich in texture and shows characteristics of berry, dark chocolate and juicy fruit. The finish is long with a balanced acidity and fine tannin structure.

The Malbec vineyard is planted on their Groenkloof farm on the slopes of Stellenbosch Mountain and is the highest vineyard on Dornier. The soil consists of decomposed granite. The yield of this vineyard is kept low naturally because Malbec seems to be a favourite of the resident troop of baboons.

This wine was fermented in open stainless-steel tanks with regular pump overs. After alcoholic fermentation the wines underwent malolactic fermentation followed by 18 months ageing in 30% new and the balance in second fill and older French oak barrels. (Talk to us about your long term storage solutions)

Now available online and in-store with Wine Menu Kramerville.

03/10/2024

Alinea 100% Viura

Natasha Jacka owner and winemaker of Alinea - recently won 2024 Next Generation Award by winemag.co.za, and for good reason, her wines are beautiful, perfectly expressive of site, tiny production, minimal intervention gems.

The Alinea Viura provides layers of texture and complexity. The wine initially shows dusty, flinty aromas which, as it opens up, reveal notes of citrus blossom and elderflower. Intense flavours of citrus and winter melon are present on the palate. There is a long mineral finish.

Remember this name, Natasha will become a household name in wine circles. Mark our words.

Now available available at Wine Menu online and in-store.

02/10/2024

La Bri with Cellarmaster Irene Waller de Fleuriot
October 16 @ 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm
R280 per person.

Signature Style Wines created with Passion in the historic Franschhoek Valley

Irene Waller has been cellarmaster and general manager at this historic farm since 2010. Not only is she making exceptional wines and bubbly, she also runs the entire farm’s vineyards and replanting programs. Her dedication and focus to produce wines that not only reflect their sense of place, but also her elegant touch in the cellar is evident in the final product. Apart from the La Bri wines that we’ve all come to love, Irene also plays in the cellar with some interesting varieties and winemaking techniques.

We’re delighted to host Irene at Wine Menu to showcase the quirky side of her passion and craft on Wednesday 16 October.
 These wines are true hidden gems as you cannot buy them anywhere but on the farm, or of course, on the night of the tasting.

We’ll be tasting
 Sauvage La Bri 2018 Cap Classique Double Door Roussanne 2023 La Bri Viognier 2023 Double Door Chardonnay Viognier 2022 Double Door Petit Verdot 2022 La Bri Syrah 2021 (the trophy winner) La Bri Limited release Chardonnay 2023

Booking is essential as seats are limited

Address

3 Desmond Street, Kramerville
Johannesburg

Website

http://www.winemenu.co.za/

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Videos

On this #throwbackthursday, here are some highlights from a recent tasting we hosted with winemaker David Nieuwoudt. Thanks to our partners Cederberg Wines for an incredible line up; ILVE for hosting us in your gorgeous showroom, Riedel for the use of your classy glasses and Pippa’s Food for tantalising our taste buds and ensuring we didn’t go hungry. Most importantly thanks to our guests for a fun and interactive afternoon. We have postponed our upcoming tastings as a Covid precaution. But keep your eye out for a virtual ‘taste in the comfort of your home’ event happening soon.

“Technology and mechanization will never be a substitute for passion.” That’s the adage at Luddite wines where the Verburg family team makes some world class wine. Penny looks after the vineyards, and Niels is in charge in the cellar. Their daughter Alice has recently joined her dad in the winery. The Luddite Shiraz 2017, which has just been released is up there with the best in its class. Made from grapes from their Bot Rivier farm this is Luddite Shiraz at its best: powerful yet elegant. Cellar it away for another decade and you will be surely rewarded. At Wine Menu we were able to get a limited allocation of the Luddite Chenin Blanc 2020, of which only 1300 bottles were produced. This wine is all about texture and careful contemplation. Get these classic cellar wines now. Shop online here http://bit.ly/Luddite-wine or visit us instore.

Rosé bubbles? Yes please! Melissa Nelson from Genevieve MCC has just released her maiden vintage. It has been in the planning for while and now, after many months of trial bottlings testing the dosage (sweetness) level - it is ready, and available at Wine Menu. Made from 15 year old Shiraz vineyards located in Bot River, planted in Bokkeveld Shale on a chalky clay layer, this MCC is a beautiful rose gold colour. It has a pretty nose of white strawberries and pink meringue. Fresh acidity supports the vibrant but delicate mousse. Beware, this bubbly keeps you coming back for more. You can find it on our shelves, or visit our online shop here: http://bit.ly/Genevieve-Brut-Rose

The Durand:

Are you a wine collector with some older vintages? Do they possibly have fragile corks? Then we have the ultimate gadget for you. The Durand wine opener ensures you remove the cork whole and contained. No more floating cork bits in your special wine. Every serious wine person needs one of these. Get it from our online shop (https://www.winemenu.co.za/product/the-durand/), or if you want to touch and feel it before you buy, stop by our Kramerville store.

We hosted a festive Portuguese white wine tasting recently. Thanks to our guests who joined us. Even though pronouncing these new names was tricky, we thoroughly enjoyed learning more about the producers; varietals and terroir of Portugal. Keep your eye on our social media and website events page for upcoming tasting days and activities.

We have curated a Cabernet Collectors Case. If you like Cabernet Sauvignon and are looking to put something special in your cellar to store away for a few years, this collection is some of the very best we have here in South Africa. The assortment is made up of: Kanonkop Cabernet Sauvignon 2015: yes, you read correctly, 2015. Greg Sherwood MW described it as “an absolute thing of vinous beauty”. Boekenhoutskloof Cabernet Sauvignon 2017: A superb and elegant wine that is long and dry on the finish. Erika O 2017: this is a serious wine with all the hallmarks of an extraordinary Cabernet. Restless River Main Road and Dignity 2017: refined and dignified this wine is pure class. Thelema Cabernet Sauvignon 2017: a fabulous expression of pure Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon in a style true to the 2017 vintage. Stark-Condé Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 2018: Rich and polished offering a long finish with the fine tannins typical of a Jonkershoek Valley wine. Only 6 cases are available. Shop online or visit us instore. http://bit.ly/Cabernet-Collectors-Case

A few highlights from our recent Naudé tutored wine tasting. Thanks to all those who joined us, we enjoyed hearing your contributions and interesting questions. And thanks to Ian Naude for sharing his knowledge and passion with us all. Keep your eye on our website events page for upcoming tastings, we have some nice things planned. Or alternatively subscribe to our newsletter for early notification of the events calendar.

Marvelous March

We’ve put together a ‘Marvelous March’ case for the new month. So strike it lucky by ordering these great tasting and great value Sauvignon Blancs for the marvelous price of R555. Order here: http://bit.ly/Marvelous-March We are thrilled that we can go back to normal trading hours, so you can now pop in and have a browze at our Kramerville shop on a Friday or Saturday. Also, keep your eye out for some tastings that we are lining up…

It’s with a little bit of FOMO, but we are so enjoying watching our friends and colleagues busy with their 2021 harvest! If you are wondering about the harvest process, here is a quick summary of what you are seeing in the video: Once grapes have reached the desired level of ripeness and flavour they are harvested, usually in the wee hours of the morning, when the air is cool to prevent early fermentation. The desired ripeness depends on the style of wine a winemaker is intending to make. For “champagne” it would be quite early, when acid levels are still high but the sugars not, all the way through to dessert wines when the grapes would have reached a very high sugar level. (We’re not quite at the stage of the latter being harvested anywhere in SA yet.) Right now we are looking at the earlier ripening varieties, like Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, Palomino, Pinot Noir and even some Grenache which has gone into the cellars already. Once sorted, grape bunches need to be destemmed and crushed. Again, depending on the techniques the winemaker prefers to follow for the desired end result. Sophisticated machinery can remove stems without damaging the fruit, and the grapes can then be crushed. In white wines, grapes generally move from crushing to pressing immediately, with little or no extended contact between the grape skins and juice. For red wine, grape pressing usually doesn't take place until after fermentation. Rosé starts with red grapes, but these are pressed until the juice starts turning from pale to light pink and then as it gets darker the winemaker would stop the pressing and remove the first run juice for rose. Cellar work can be backbreaking and everything is sticky at the end of the day. We salute all our winemakers in the cellars, working hard, sleeping little and stressing a lot about the juice in tanks and barrels. We appreciate what you do so that we can have the pleasure of enjoying the fruits of your labour. *Video courtesy of

Ok folks, your dry; detox January is now over, wine sales are open, and we’ve got a great special to kick off February with. Wine worries no more! Purchase this terrifically priced mixed case and you will be smiling all through the month. Visit our online store to place your order, or stop by at our specialist wine shop in Kramerville. At R585 per case you can’t go wrong with this delicious selection. Online link here: http://bit.ly/Feb-mixed-case

Saturday Sipping Sessions

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Wine Tastings

Wine Menu have become known for focused, educational tastings in Johannesburg. This year marks the 8th annual Chardonnay and Pinot Noir Festival on Thursday 30 May 2019 at Killarney Country Club. Tickets @ R250 are available on www.webtickets.co.za as well as at our shop at 3 Desmond, Kramerville. Entry includes unlimited tasting of the more than 100 wines available on the night. Light snacks will also be served throughout the evening.

Some of the producers who will be at this year’s tasting are: Jordan, Radford Dale, Uva Mira, Hartenberg, Oak Valley, Lismore, Lothian, Almenkerk, Thelema, Springfield, Vriesenhof, Bosman, Vergelegen, Groot Constantia, Laarman, La Brune, Eikendal, Hamilton Russell, De Wetshof, Storm, Glen Carlou, Capensis, Matthew Van Heerden, Mont Blois, Longridge, Creation, Paul Wallace, La Bri, Raised by Wolves, Blackwater, Crystallum, Fram and more