Tullamore Dew.
Tullamore Dew.
Image: Supplied

1. TULLAMORE DEW ORIGINAL

The original triple blend of Irish whiskey, the combination of three spirits in this blend creates a three-dimensional flavour experience like no other. The malt whiskey adds the fruitiness, pot-still whiskey provides the spice, and grain whiskey brings the sweetness. For a decidedly South African take on this Irish classic, try this:

Tullamore DEW and Appletiser

Ingredients:

  1. 50ml Tullamore DEW original
  2. 200ml Appletiser
  3. 3 slices of green apple

Method:

  1. Fill a highball glass with ice with ice
  2. Add 50ml Tullamore DEW original, topped up with 200ml of Appletiser
  3. Garnish with a fan of fresh apple slices

2. CARL EVERSON SINGLE VINEYARD CHENIN BLANC 2019

The beauty of this Opstal Estate wine is that, even though it stays the same each year (it’s harvested from the same single-vineyard, 35-year-old vines), each year is remarkably different. The 2019 vintage shows a little restraint before opening up to reveal quince and pineapple notes with a freshness and finesse that lingers long after the last sip. Pair with something equally special, such as pork belly, duck breast, or bobotie.

Carl Everson Single Vineyard Chenin Blanc 2019.
Carl Everson Single Vineyard Chenin Blanc 2019.
Image: Supplied

3. WADE BALES BRUT ROSÉ NV

Having spent most of the past 25 years walking between the Cape’s vines, alongside those who nurture them, I have made it my life’s ambition to connect more people with more of the Cape’s best wines. My latest collab from one of the Constantia Valley’s most acclaimed wine estates is no exception. It’s a Prosecco-style bubbly with a delicate mousse, fine bubbles, and classic strawberry and cherry flavours that lead to a crisp, dry finish. It is a punt for my own tipple but I stand by it.

Wade Bales Brut Rosé NV.
Wade Bales Brut Rosé NV.
Image: Supplied

4. HAMPDEN ESTATE JAMAICAN RUM

One of only two remaining independent distilleries in Jamaica, Hampden Rum is often considered to be one of the best in the world — historically known as the grand cru of Jamaican rum. Aged for eight years in the tropical Jamaican climate (equivalent to almost 25 years of maturation in a European climate), the resultant liquor is voluptuous and intense with waxy notes of ripe banana, allspice, dried orange zest, and baked apple.

Hampden Estate Jamaican Rum.
Hampden Estate Jamaican Rum.
Image: Supplied

5. ABRIE BEESLAAR PINOTAGE 2019

Hailing from a single vineyard, 26-year-old bush vines have produced another knockout vintage. Concentrated aromas of black cherries, Christmas cake, and wild strawberries give way to a beautifully poised and elegant palate, with fine tannins, plush fruit, and lingering savoury notes on the finish.

Abrie Beeslaar Pinotage 2019.
Abrie Beeslaar Pinotage 2019.
Image: Supplied

6. A SOUTH AFRICAN SHOWCASE

Wine is part of the life blood of Ellerman House. Its first house blend, the Ellerman 2018, made predominantly from syrah and grenache noir shows remarkable fruit intensity and elegance. The palate delivers a textured mouthfeel with silky-smooth tannins and a fresh, satisfying finish.

The Ellerman 2018.
The Ellerman 2018.
Image: Supplied

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 May edition of Wanted, 2021.

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