[imagesource: iStock]

If there is one thing that we can safely predict about the year 2022, it is that a whole lot of wine is going to be consumed.

Oh, and that it might just be another wholly unpredictable year…

As it is true for every nook and cranny of this life, the COVID-19 pandemic has complicated everything to do with the wine industry, from how we buy it to how we taste it, and even where we drink it.

But despite all this uncertainty, James Pietersen, chief executive of Wine Cellar, has pinned down a few trends that keep an eye on in the wine industry this year.

Here are five trends from his forecast, per IOL:

1. Local is lekker:

South Africa’s fine wine image is still on the up what with international commentators continuously commending the great value of our wines on offer.

With a growing focus on supporting the local industry, consumers will look to purchase local fine wines.

Hell yes, the best wine is proudly South African, with our favourite spot in the Franschhoek Winelands being a case in point.

Anthonij Rupert Wyne had awards and accolades pour in over the last year.

The internationally recognised Platter’s South African Wine Guide 2022 awarded Anthonij Rupert Wyne with four five-star ratings and 14 four-and-a-half-star ratings for wines in their impressive portfolio, as well as a Semillon of the Year award.

2. Rosé or the highway:

Rosé continues its rise. This year, look out for rosé wines made in Provençal style – with a light, summery bouquet and dry, refreshing palate.

Just perfect for summer sipping by the pool.

That’s good living right there.

Anthonij Rupert Wyne’s Jean Roi Rosé is on the money with mineral, wet stone, and floral undertones supporting the fresh apple, yellow peach, and apricot aromas on the nose:

That is certainly a road you will want to go down this year.

3. Stellar sparkling wine sales:

The growth in sparkling wine sales was stellar in 2021, as demand outstripped supply and many top cuvées were continuously sold out.

It’s likely that we will see more of that this year.

It would be remiss of us not to point you in the direction of the award-winning L’Ormarins Vintage Brut Rosé 2016, which was also the recipient of the SA Woman Wine & Spirits Award, made with 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay with bubbles galore:

If those bubbles carrying hints of cherry and strawberry isn’t the flavour for you, there’s also a stunning L’Ormarins Brut Classique, which has cracker biscuit notes on the nose with lively citrus rind and a briny, maritime nuance.

4. Home is where the wine is:

Due to the COVID-19 era, home consumption of wine has experienced an increase in quality. This year, I expect the movement towards “drinking the very best at home” to be further established.

What’s more, the trend for wine drinkers cooking and experimenting with pairings at home, established during the height of the pandemic, is also set to continue.

If your home is where the wine is, you can easily stock up on the good stuff and have it delivered right to your door.

5. But more wine events, please:

For those allowed to mingle again, wine events will be crucial this year. We have already seen a great increase in demand for in-person, shared wine experiences in South Africa.

One of the best places to soak up some wine and social vibes is the Anthonij Rupert Tasting Room, housed in the estate’s historic and meticulously refurbished Manor House:

There, they serve tastings of the L’Ormarins Cape Of Good Hope Wines and flagship Anthonij Rupert wines.

It’s also the venue for their Cap Classique and nougat pairing, as well as the indulgent High Tea service.

What’s more, if you join the Anthonij Rupert Wine Club you will get advanced notification of new vintages, new releases, participating wine shows, and special seasonal events (where you can meet the winemaker).