TOKARA RED 2003

I have always been amazed by the wines of South Africa, particularly this gorgeous Bordeaux-inspired blend from Stellenbosch, the Tokara Red 2003. This stunning, full-bodied red is a blend of 73% Merlot, 18% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 9% Petit Verdot. It spends 20 months in French oak (mostly new), and demonstrates the best in South African winemaking to date. Tokara (the winery is pictured left), is winemaker Miles Mossop's endeavor at the foot of the Simonsberg Mountains in Stellenbosch.

Rich, dense and powerful, you get beautiful aromas of red and black fruits, hints of smoke and oak and just a touch of warm cocoa. The palate reveals layers of cherries, currants, blackberries, tobacco and spice box, with robust tannins and hints of earth for a multidimensional red that will stand up to barbeque and steaks on the grill. It's a bit of a splurge, but well worth it.