Francois Botha

Two Oceans Pinot Noir 2010, Western Cape

Black cherry with earthiness and smokiness. OK fruit and medium-bodied, but the tannins still dominate. Will probably not improve.

Graffigna Centenario Pinot Grigio Reserve 2010

Very drinkable white with flowers and peaches on the nose. There is a butteriness on the palate and the alcohol is surprisingly high, but when the temperatures rise, this can disappear quickly.

P K N T Carmenere 2010, Central Valley

Plums, coffee, and herbaceous notes on the nose. Plenty of juicy fruit on the palate. The wine is medium-bodied, easy-drinking, and well-balanced.

Casal Thaulero Pinot Grigio 2011, Osco Igp Molise

Pear, peaches, and nuts on the nose. It is medum-bodied, creamy, with crisp acidity and plenty of fruit. Great value.

Obikwa Cabernet Sauvignon 2011

Blackberry, spices, chocolate, and coffee on the nose. Plenty of ripe fruit, but slightly harsh tannins. Medium-bodied and lacking in complexity, but good value at the price.

Santa Carolina Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva 2011

Cherries, mint, herbs, and vanilla on the nose. It has plenty of fruit with soft tannins and is medium-bodied. Pretty good value, but nothing outstanding.

Casal Thaulero Sangiovese 2011, Terre Di Chieti, Abruzzo

Raspberry, herbs, coffee, and meatiness on the nose. Slightly green tannins on this medium-bodied with a good amount of fruit to sustain it. Excellent value at this price point.

Barossa Valley Estate E Minor Shiraz 2010, Barossa Valley

Blackberries and spices on the nose. It has lots of dark fruit, but lacks structure on the palate.

Emiliana Adobe Reserva Sauvignon Blanc 2012, Casablanca Valley

Santa Carolina Sauvignon Blanc 2013, Rapel Valley

Passion fruit and grassiness on the nose. It is quite flavourful and light-bodied, but lacks the acidity to hold the wine together.