Lock, stock and wine barrel: trends in 2018

Last year and the Sanlam Handmade Contemporary Fair a forecaster already whispered in my ear 2018 will be the year of rum as craft rum replaces our G&T urges.

Already Inverrosch, Deep South Distillery and Time Anchor Distillery have released deep-amber perfection with their individual rums. But rum’s not the only drink expected to gain popularity in 2018.

Dry Rosé is finally getting its moment in the spotlight. A few sommeliers and winemakers have said that there seems to be a newfound thirst for the pink drink. But don’t think pink means clawingly sweet – Rosé’s are now refined, drier and more delectable than ever. Brut Rosé is equally popular if you want to add fizz to the mix.

Kleine Zalze’s exceptional non-vintage Brut Rosé: This MCC uses traditional grape varietals” Chardonnay 40% and Pinot Noir 60% that are pressed whole and separate parcels of each of the varietals are vinified in stainless steel tanks. During secondary fermentation, the wine is fermented and matured for 18 months on the lees. After rémuage (turning of the bottles) the Non-Vintage Brut Rosé are disgorged.

Saugvignon Blanc is also topping grocery lists all over South Africa. An expected leader is Flagstone’s Sauvignon Blanc, Free Run. Grapes are handled with care to retain as much of the natural, zesty freshness as possible – leading to full flavours and aromas.

Expect a complex nose of green pepper, fig leaves, passion fruit, star fruit and lime aromas.