Iona Sauvignon Blanc, 2008, Elgin, South Africa  Add/Read Comments

To reach Elgin take the N2 from Cape Town and keep going through the wine lands of Stellenbosch. Compared to the rash of vineyards covering the valleys and hills of Stellenbosch and Franschoek, Elgin has little more than a handful of wineries (with Paul Cluver being perhaps the most well known) in this traditionally apple-growing region. Iona stands alone in the south of Elgin and sadly wasn't on the itinerary of my recent trip.

While flicking through the Reuben's Cooks recipe book a mention of the Iona Sauvignon as an ideal accompaniment to one of the salad dishes - and by the fact that the wine is readily available at Waitrose - led to its purchase.

The salad, (Avocado Salad With Toasted Pine Nuts, Rocket, Parmesan and Balsamic Syrup) a superb starter or with added bread a lighter lunch, is simplicity to prepare. Using the freshest and highest quality ingredients of course, the dish was a most joyous match - about as perfect as you could wish - even if the use of rocket was usurped by pea shoots.

Review0.3
Wine Tasting Note: Iona Sauvignon Blanc, 2008, Elgin, South Africa.
Stockist: Waitrose SAWinesOnline Price: £9.99 [More: Adegga / Snooth]

A super example of a classy, restrained, refined, Sauvignon Blanc. An edge of fig and peach stones lifts the complex mineral-led palate. Lovely balance- crisply done on the finish married with a weighty feel and nice - not overly assertive - acidity. Alcohol 13.5%.

Andrew BarrowScribblings Rating - 92/100 [4 out of 5]