Wines Stellenbosch The Misfits - 2020

The Misfits 2020 is a South African red wine hailing from the renowned Stellenbosch appellation within the Coastal Region. Stellenbosch is celebrated for its classic Bordeaux-style blends and single varietals, often featuring Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah. While the specific cépages of The Misfits 2020 are not detailed, the vintage aligns with the region’s focus on bold, structured reds. The 2020 vintage benefitted from a moderate growing season, producing grapes of excellent concentration and balance. In the cellar, winemakers in this area typically employ a judicious use of French oak, which supports the ripe fruit profile and subtle spice without overpowering the inherent varietal character.

Stellenbosch itself is arguably South Africa's premier wine region, situated just east of Cape Town. The climate is Mediterranean, with warm, dry summers offset by cooling breezes coming off False Bay, which slow down the ripening and allow flavours to develop complexity and length. Soils here are incredibly varied, with a predominance of decomposed granite and well-draining sandstone, giving rise to wines of structure and elegance. The history of winemaking in Stellenbosch dates back over three centuries, blending old-world tradition with innovative approaches.

For food pairings, consider the wine’s anticipated richness and vibrant fruit. A classic South African Bobotie, spiced minced meat baked with egg topping, would echo the wine’s warm spice undertones. Alternatively, a char-grilled steak, lamb sosaties (kebabs with dried apricots), or a hearty mushroom risotto would allow both tannin and freshness to shine. Local cheeses such as a mature Boerenkaas or a robust blue cheese would also make excellent companions.

To fully appreciate The Misfits 2020's complexities, serve at 16-18°C. Decanting for up to an hour before serving can help open up the bouquet and soften the tannins, especially given the wine's youth and potential concentration. Enjoy over the next five to eight years for optimal balance between fruit and secondary notes.