Winemaker Louis van der Riet describes this as a medium-bodied port, youthful with fruity, spicy flavours and a balanced sweetness. Receiving 88 points by wine journalist Neal Martin in the 2011 Wine Advocate Ratings, it also boasts 10 consecutive 4-star ratings from the Platter's South African Wine Guide - the only Cape Ruby in South Africa with this track record. Wine Magazine rated it as a Best Value Wine for 2007, 2009, 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014.
It is an excellent port to enjoy during this winter at room temperature. For an 'out of the box' pairing, marinate fresh figs in the port for about a week. Once thoroughly soaked, enjoy the port-drenched figs with a combination of dark and milk Belgian chocolate for an experience of a perfect partnership. It is available directly from the farm or most outlets nationwide and retails for approximately R65 per bottle.
Having received a 4 ½ star rating for the 2012 and 2013 vintage in the Platter's South African Wine Guide, the De Krans Cape Vintage 2013 will also be available in the new classical port bottle, but sporting a classic black capsule and cork. Retailing for approximately R89 per bottle, excellent value for money for this premium port, it is also produced using the four Portuguese grape varieties to ensure the superior quality.
Displaying a beautiful aromatic nose of violets, red berries, vanilla and dark chocolate, this full-bodied port with alluring red fruit, dried prunes and cocoa flavours is best enjoyed on its own or with most baked desserts, or in a sauce over ice cream, or with well-matured cheeses. For more information, go to www.dekrans.co.za.
