Charles Back has always had a flair for innovation and the name of his latest blend from The Spice Route Winery caused quite a stir when it was first released. The 2007 Chakalaka is the maiden vintage of this wine, positioned as the second blend within the Spice Route range, along with the much-lauded flagship Malabar. Taking its name from a traditional South African relish, the 2007 Chakalaka is blend of Shiraz, Grenache, Mourv?+¦???+¦?+¦-+?+¦+ëdre and Carignan. It came as no surprise to Back and his team when the Chakalaka received a prestigious Five Star rating in the February issue of Decanter Magazine, one of the UK’s leading wine publications. This is the highest rating that Decanter awards and is recognition of the quality and style that The Spice Route Winery is developing. Charl du Plessis is the winemaker at this pioneering winery in the Swartland and describes Chakalaka as a richly flavoured South African blend that will uplift and inspire in any situation. “On my trips to the UK market I have been able to see the respect that Decanter has amongst the trade and therefore this is a great compliment not only for the 2007 Chakalaka, but also for the hard work that we have been putting in at Spice Route. We don’t really push hard for medals and recognition, but it is always great when some comes along,” said du Plessis.
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