As the chill sets in and the days grow shorter, there’s nothing quite like a glass of fine wine to warm the soul. At Ridgeback Wines, we believe winter is the perfect season to explore rich, comforting, and complex wines that pair beautifully with hearty meals and cosy evenings by the fire.
The Art of Winter Wine Pairing
Winter demands wines with a bit more backbone, wines that can stand up to the robust flavours of slow-cooked stews, roasted meats, and rich, creamy dishes. Our selection focuses on depth, warmth, and a comforting finish, designed to enhance your seasonal culinary adventures.
Our Top Winter Wine Picks
Here are some of our Cellar Master Toit Wessels’ recommended Ridgeback wines to help you brave the cold:
Ridgeback Cabernet Franc
This is a true winter warmer. Our Cabernet Franc, particularly the 2021 vintage that recently garnered a 5-star rating from Platter’s, offers upfront blackcurrant notes beautifully cradled by hints of green peppercorn and black olive. Its elegant, ripe tannins and long mineral finish make it an ideal companion for game birds like duck or quail, and it’s equally sublime with veal. A bottle of this by the fireplace is pure bliss.
Ridgeback Merlot
Known for its velvety texture and ripe fruit flavours, our Merlot brings a harmonious balance of power and finesse. Its smooth elegance makes it incredibly versatile, perfect for those comforting lamb roasts, mushroom dishes, or simply savouring on its own as the evening draws in. Its 4.5-star Platter’s rating further solidifies its place as a winter essential.
Ridgeback The Journey
Embark on a flavour adventure with The Journey, our complex Bordeaux-style blend. This wine offers layers of dark fruit, spice, and structure, making it a fantastic match for hearty stews, rich casseroles, and strong, aged cheeses. Its depth and warmth are exactly what you need on a cold winter’s night.
Ridgeback Signature C
Our Signature C (Cabernet Sauvignon) offers power and depth, with notes of dark fruit, leather, and cedar. This iconic red is a classic choice for winter. Pair it with grilled red meats or any substantial, warming dish to truly appreciate its full character.
Enjoy the Winter Warmth with Ridgeback
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, enjoying a quiet night in, or simply unwinding after a long day, our winter wine selections are crafted to bring comfort and joy to your table.
Explore our full range and find your perfect winter companion.
