Elephant Tree Chenin Blanc Viognier 2023
Classic Movie Pairing
Hatari! (1961)With a title that translates to danger in Swahili, this Howard Hawks film is full of action. Starring John Wayne, Hardy Kruger, Elsa Marinelli and Red Buttons, it tells the story of hunters who trap animals for zoos and circuses. Exciting with a dose of humor, it's undeniably entertaining. It also gave us one of cinema's most memorable tunes with "Baby Elephant Walk" by Henry Mancini. What better to pair with it than a bright and refreshing white blend featuring an elephant in a tree on its label?
About This Wine
Wine Food Pairings
Cheese, vegetarian, pork, chicken, shellfish, herb sauces.
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. (You might recognize the winery as the 2022 Drinks Business Ethical Company of the Year.)
This bright, fresh white is their newest arrival, crafted by the talented Leon Esterhuizen. It’s a luscious blend of Viognier and Chenin Blanc (the flagship white grape of South Africa). Fans of their Bees Knees wines will love this new release, which has aromas of ripe tangerine, apricot, pear and orange blossom, followed by flavors of orchard fruit and zingy citrus, lifted by notes of subtle spice.
And if you’re wondering about the unusual label, here’s the great story: This lovely, rounded wine takes its name from the ‘Elephant Tree’succulent that’s indigenous to the Eastern Cape of South Africa. Adored by those magnificent animals as a favorite snack, the tree is also cherished for its ability to absorb carbon from the air. In fact, it’s so efficient that not even fast-growing bamboo can match it. In keeping with their commitment to the planet, Journey’s End has recently planted 500 Elephant Trees (also known by their proper name, spekboom).
Easy to enjoy on its own, this white wine is also tasty with equally aromatic foods (think Thai or Indian), savory white meats or strong-flavored cheeses. Secure your share today—and serve well chilled.
“The fine wines of South Africa deserve much more attention than they receive.”
JancisRobinson.com
on South African wine