When I think of wine, my minds eye wanders along the budding vines in France and the rolling hills in Italy, within the bouquet of blossoms in Napa Valley (America), and through South Africa's Cape Wine Route.
I'd never considered that our continent, rich in minerals and agriculture, might produce some of the most uniquely aromatic grape nectar until I tasted a 2015 un-oaked chardonnay hailing from Morocco. The refreshing peach and rose petal flavour profile teased my taste buds. I had to find out more about vino grown from our soil.
Below are six African regions that harvest spectacular wine:
Algeria
Despite being an Islamic nation (a state that abstains from alcohol), the relatively large country produces a catalogue of impressive wine. Vineyards can be found along the coastal cities of Oran, Alger and Constantine. If you appreciate a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon with your beef or hearty root-veg dish, then Mourvedre wine will please you palate too. The full-bodied, rustic wine, which originated in Spain, is also produced in Algeria. Sip and swirl on a flavour profile is an explosion of dark fruit, black pepper and thyme.
Cape Verde
A former Portuguese colony, the island nation found just off the coast of West Africa harvests an adaptation of vino its previous colonizers are known for - Nacional Wine. With the aging potential similar to Cabernet Sauvignon, this bold red wine has a depth of flavour. Blueberry, plum and cocoa contrasted by mint and violet will thrill your tastebuds from the moment the nectar passes your lips. The dry Nacional Wine goes perfectly with a decadent dessert or a flavourful stew.
Ethiopia
This land-locked country has been making local wine called Tej (mead) from the first century A.D. Tej is a honey-wine drink made from gesho leaves indigenous to Ethiopia. Though made with grapes and honey, the alcoholic drink isn't as sweet as you'd think. Serve this unique drink at a cocktail party. Not only will it provide an interesting talking point for your guests but cheese and crackers pair marvelously with it too.
Morocco
A traditional tagine might appreciate being paired with a raspberry, black cherry and dark chocolate flavoured Syrah-Grenache. The blend is smooth and warm, rich in character, and the generous flavour profile will leave you with a cranberry and spice aftertaste. Another country that is largely populated by Muslims (98%), coastal region produces some of the greatest wine on the continent.
South Africa
Mzantsi is known for producing some of the best wine in the world. All through the Western Cape, wine farms and vineyards harvest a variety of Melrot, Malbec (origionally from Argentina), Syrah, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and a cellar of creative blends. A classic Chenin Blanc is versatile in style and sweetness. It has a distinct buttery taste and fruity aroma. Anything from turkey and chicken, to seafood and soft cheese will be enhanced by the complementing and contrasting flavour of Chenin Blanc.
Tunisia
This small, coastal country is found in North Africa and produces Gris de Tunisie - or Grey Tunisian Wine. Despite it's intriguing name, the grape drink is rose coloured and fruity in flavour. The wine will not disappoint on a hot day, accompanied by a sea bream cooked in fennel or a chirizo tortilla.
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While on a food tour in Mozambique, I happened upon a refreshing Champagne Sangria recipe using sparkling wine from South Africa. We really are the United Tastes of Africa.
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