Wine master Allan Mullins discovers a trio of outstanding reds from the Constantia Valley, traditionally more famous for its legendary white wines.

BUITENVERWACHTING CHRISTINE 2007

This wine has been a classy, consistent Bordeauxblend since the maiden 1989 vintage. The 2007, which consists of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec, has been aged for 24 months in new French oak. 

The nose has chocolate, cherries, blackcurrant and cigar-box aromas and the palate is concentrated and rich. 

Pair it with:

Roast duck with preserved ginger and figs in gold leaf

Slow-roasted lamb, Italian style

Roast paprika chicken stuffed with chorizo, brinjals and parsley

Cellar price: R250

CONSTANTIA GLEN 2007

Last year, to great acclaim, winemaker Karl Lambour released two 2007 reds, Constantia Glen and Constantia Saddle. 

With an opaque depth and classic Bordeaux bouquet, the Glen is the fuller bodied of the two wines. The palate is dense and complex, with tight tannins.

Pair it with:

Home-made salted rosemary olive oil bread topped with Parma ham

Elegant Parma ham and pistachio salad topped with white chocolate curls

Chicken and Parma ham steamed in garlic and parsley

Cellar price: R245

EAGLES NEST SHIRAZ

Of the estate's reds, the Shiraz has been most successful, winning, among others, the Best Shiraz Trophy and Best Red Wine Trophy at the 2010 Old Mutual Trophy Wine Show. 

The nose has strong white pepper, spice, red berries and a smoky tang from the 18 months wood maturation. The palate is firm yet luscious with an inspired blend of spices, fruits and oak.

Pair it with:

Beef fillet with roasted vegetables and glazed spring onions on crushed herb potatoes

Soya marinated pork fillet with minty tabbouleh and gremolata

Pan-fried fillet with crispy onion rings and aioli

Cellar price: R190