Yes, yes, we know.

As things stand, you can’t swing past the store and snap up a few bottles of wine, because the sale of alcohol in South Africa is currently banned.

That ban will be dropped – although perhaps not on July 11 as originally slated – and you will need to replenish your stocks.

According to Wine Spectator, a leading US lifestyle magazine that focuses on wine and wine culture, we are very much spoilt for choice.

A number of South African wines scored ratings in the 90s, including five from Anthonij Rupert Wyne alone.

The highest-rated South African wine across all vineyards was a Porseleinberg Swartland 2018, which was awarded a score of 94.

Wine Spectator had this to say about the Cape’s wines, in particular:

Though South Africa produces grapes known across the globe, the country’s diverse terroirs create nuanced wines that differ from their global counterparts and even their native brethren.

Wine Spectator senior editor Alison Napjus’ tasting report on recent releases of South African wines highlights the quality and value of bottlings of Cabernet, Syrah, Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc and more from across the Cape.

Far be it from us to argue with Napjus’ palate.

Anthonij Rupert Wyne scored a 92 for their Cabernet Sauvignon Franschhoek 2015. Via their online shop, we could only find a 2016 Cab Sav, with a cellaring potential of 10 to 15 years, if you’re inclined to hang onto your wines for a special occasion.

You’re looking at hints of vanilla with dark red berries and black currant, pencil shavings, and cigar box, with great follow through to the palate.

Rupert Wyne’s Cabernet Franc Franschhoek 2014 scored 91 (it’s in limited stock), boasting bold graphite, earthy aromas with a subtle blackcurrant leaf note over black and blueberry fruit.

Cabernet Sauvignon Coastal Region 2016 scored a 92, and the Merlot Coastal Region 2015 scored 91.

The tasting notes for the latter say the wine has a lovely equilibrium of succulence and acidity with a gentle tannin grip, adding that there is admirable restraint on display on this long-lived, rewarding wine that will age with distinction.

More than I can say about some politicians in this country.

Finally, the Syrah Franschhoek 2015 scored 91. We found a 2014 Syrah, with a cellaring potential of eight to 10 years and a long, spicy, rewarding, and intricate tail.

You can still stock your basket and head to checkout via the online shop, but the wine will only be delivered once the alcohol sales ban is lifted.

I would consider getting in there early so that your order is somewhere near the top of the list when that happens.

For now, I hope you have enough stashed away to see you through.

You’ll find the full list of wine ratings from Wine Spectator here.

[source:winespectator]