The Oak Valley Blend 2006

For the last of the chilly evenings – summer comes late to Cape Town – I am sipping The Oak Valley Blend 2006.

It's not too heavy to drink alone, but partners well with gentle food – think gnocchi in tomato sauce or a rich ragout – and the juicy fruit lingers on the palette.

The blend is domainated by merlot at 51%, but is enhanced by the addition of Cabernet Franc (34%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (15%).

Look for flavour notes of plum, liquorice and mint.