Pale yellow. Lightly honeyed nose, with hints of apricot and lime blossom. Mid-weight, showing ripe lime with exotic hints. Fresh, and a charming aperitif. Now-2010

Product Code: KNO108

I visited Knorhoek as their Two Cubs wines are often rated as “exceptionally drinkable and well priced” in Platter’s South African Wines. Both the white and red came up to scratch, so we have had to break our rule that we don’t buy “critter” wines, i.e. wines which have been named after local mammals, reptiles, birds, etc.
 In this case, as the farm has been known as Knorhoek, “the place where lions growl”, for over 200 years, we were prepared to make an exception; and the Two Cubs are fairly understated, almost heraldic, on the label. The white, a blend of 50% Sauvignon Blanc, 40% Chenin Blanc and 10% Semillon, is refreshing and brightly fruited. The red is from 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 25 % Petit Verdot, 7.5% Cabernet Franc, 7.5% Shiraz and 5% Pinotage, given modest oak accents with staves: this is a big, open, spicy wine, which shows so well how blends are so often more interesting and harmonious than single varietal wines at a modest price level.