Movie & Wine Pairing

wine

Journey’s End ‘Wild Child’ Chardonnay 2018
Coastal Region WO, South Africa

Mutiny on the Bounty (1962)
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 22 @ 08:00 PM (ET)

Decades after MGM’s classic version of the story of the HMS Bounty hit screens, the studio released a lavish widescreen adaptation starring Marlon Brando and showcasing the South Pacific in Technicolor splendor. Along with this richly produced film, enjoy a delicious South African Chardonnay that shows off ripe lemon, pineapple, and mango flavors – a terrific accompaniment to the tropical settings that fill director Lewis Milestone’s every frame.

CHARDONNAY

WINE STYLE

LIGHTLY CHILLED

BARBECUE

CHICKEN

THE WINE

Travel to the heart of South Africa’s gorgeous Stellenbosch region, and at the end of your trek, you’ll find the Gabb family’s aptly named estate, Journey’s End. Master of Wine Jancis Robinson calls Chardonnay their “strongest suit,” and Wild Child will show you why. The name is inspired by the family’s winemaking philosophy. Crafted with biodynamically farmed fruit (think superorganic), the wine was partially ‘wild’ fermented (meaning natural yeasts and minimal winemaker intervention) for six months in French oak barrels. It’s complex, bold, and ripples with ripe tropical fruit.

THE ESTATE

Founded in 1996, Journey’s End is the type of small, quality-driven operation that’s putting South Africa on the fine wine map – with acclaim from top shows like the International Wine Challenge and the Decanter World Wine Awards to prove it. Winemaker Leon Esterhuizen, whose experience includes harvests at Napa Valley’s Chappelle Estate and Spain’s Bodegas Castaño, has been working his magic in the cellar since 2005.

THE REGION

South Africa has the most beautiful vineyards of any region in the world – and her wines can be just as stunning. “The fine wines of South Africa deserve much more attention than they receive” (JancisRobinson.com). Well, we’re paying attention – in the last decade or so, the number of premium, boutique estates has increased greatly, providing the enthusiast with even more territory to explore.

WITH FOOD

If you’re feeling ‘wild,’ try pairing this food-friendly Chardonnay with traditional South African cuisine. At a local braai (barbecue), they’d serve Wild Child with sosaties (seasoned pork or lamb kebabs), but grilled veggies will also work. If it’s too chilly to grill, go for roasted chicken thighs smothered in chutney sauce, chicken pot pie, or a simple (and mildly spiced) yellow rice dish.