South African wine lovers are spoiled for choice when it comes to getting great quality entry-level wines at even better prices but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t spoil yourself to a little bit of luxury every now and then. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to be fancy for a night, there are loads of luxury local wines to discover if you’re willing to splash out a little.

Not sure where to start? WineCellar.co.za. is taking the guess work out of the selecting the best wines! The retailer hosted 70 tasters for a blind luxury taste-off of SA’s best red wines above R1000 per bottle in order to discover South Africa’s 5 best luxury, red wines.:

1. Kanonkop, Black Label Pinotage 2016

This is arguably SA’s most acclaimed Pinotage blend. Made  from grapes grown on ancient vines dating back to 1953, this wine is aged in brand new oak and offers hints of cherry, delicate floral notes, and fine tannins. It’s a great wine to enjoy as you buy it but it will also age beautifully.

Kanonkop, Black Label Pinotage 2016 can be found for R1750 per bottle.

2. Leeu Passant, Dry Red 2016

The cheapest of the lot but certainly not any less impressive, this pure, fresh wine contains hints of red cherry, dried herbs, tobacco and a touch of vanilla on the nose. With a unique flavour palate and 14% alcohol, this wine is sure to impress your taste-buds and your guests.

Add this blend to your cellar for R1000 per bottle.

3. Waterford, The Jem 2012

If you’re looking for something to save for an anniversary or a special occasion in the future then this wine is for you. This wine will age beautifully and develop well over the next 10 to 15 years. Take a sip and you’ll pick up aromas of pencil shavings, spices and cassis with a seamless balance of fruity flavours.

Grab a bottle of Waterford, The Jem 2012 for R1395.

4. Vergelegen, Vergelegen V 2012

Lovers of full-bodied, complex wines will adore this Vergelegen blend which showcases a rather intricate nose of blackcurrant, red cherry, cedar wood, lead pencil and cigar box on the nore, while with flavours of raspberry, black cherry and a hint of spice  develop later in the glass.

Treat yourself to this blend for R1395 per bottle.

5. La Motte, Hanneli R 2012

A combination of rose petal perfume, black berry, mulberry fruit, cinnamon and black pepper spice, this elegant wine offers a spicy depth and complexity like no other. It has a lingering aftertaste and a lively presence that is sure to brighten up your dull winter’s day.

La Motte, Hanneli R 2012 costs R1200 per bottle.

Buy these wines and other South African favourites online now via PriceCheck!

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