Winter wonders: Here are six tipples to add to your drinks cabinet

The ultimate crossover 

Introducing Tullamore DEW Irish whiskey’s new XO Caribbean Rum Cask Finish. Whoever thought Irish whiskey and Caribbean rum would mix so well? Finished in first-fill XO Caribbean demerara rum casks, this triple-distilled, triple-blend and triple-wood-matured premium whiskey possesses an Irish heart and a Caribbean soul. Shining with a golden, amber glow, expect notes of vanilla and oak overlaid with citrus, ripe bananas, and delicate spice on the nose. The smooth, creamy mouthfeel brings out burnt caramel, raisin, and warm spice flavours too. 

Glenfiddich Grande Couronne

The crowning glory of Glenfiddich Distillery’s Grand Series, this 26-year-old single malt enjoyed an extended two-year finish in rare French cognac casks. This extra touch adds an exquisite layer of toasted oak and velvety brown sugar to the long-lasting finish. 

Heavenly Helderberg

The search for the best The vineyards from which to make Boschendal’s first cabernet sauvignon for its premium Appellation Series led its makers to Stellenbosch’s Helderberg region. Famed for its legacy of cabernet sauvignon wines, the Helderberg is characterised by ancient soils and steep slopes that bask in the afternoon sun.According to winemaker Jacques Viljoen, “It’s as if cabernet sauvignon and the Helderberg were made for each other.” We couldn’t agree more. The maiden Boschendal Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon was made from the acclaimed 2017 vintage and boasts bright fruits, muscular-yet-supple tannins, and a long, 

Terrifically Specific 

Having made its mark as a creator of terroir-specific wines, Cape of Good Hope’s Altima Sauvignon Blanc 2020 is a worthy tribute to its vineyards, vintage, and viticulturist. Situated in the isolated Elandskloof valley, surrounded by a steep mountain range, this vine’s unique terroir produces wines with a high natural acidity and low pH level. After being handpicked in bunch-specific parcels at just the right time, the wine then spends eight months on the lees before being blended and bottled. The result: an intense sauvignon blanc with aromas of flint and just-snapped green beans giving way to a zippy acidity and notes of grapefruit and lemon zest on the palate. Another terroir-specific treasure from Cape of Good Hope is its Riebeeksrivier Chenin Blanc 2020, which hails from two bushvine vineyards on a wine farm situated on the slopes of the Kasteelberg, overlooking the Swartland. Its unique terroir and Rhône-like shale soils express themselves beautifully in this chenin. Expect aromas of sun-dried mango, pineapple, and peach, followed by a rich, rounded, and complex palate.

Boity's premium peaches

BT Signature Frizzante is a peach-flavoured sparkling fruit drink from South African celeb, Boitumelo Thulo’s ever-growing empire. Available in both alcoholic and non-alcoholic versions, the range was brought to life with the help of renowned winemaker Matthew Krone. Boity says the partnership came to fruition in 2019 when the two were first introduced. “I knew exactly what the market wanted, and Matthew has the skills to make it happen, so it was a match made in heaven. I cannot wait for everyone to try it.”

• With over two decades of experience in the luxury-drinks market, Wade Bales’ passion is sourcing really great drinks and sharing them with really great people.

• From the July issue of Wanted 2021.