Wines Franschhoek Philippe Colin - Innocence - 2020

Philippe Colin’s Cuvée Innocence 2020 is a red wine crafted in the Franschhoek area, part of South Africa’s renowned Coastal Region. While Philippe Colin is famous for his Burgundian expertise, his South African wines showcase a masterful blending of Old World savoir-faire with New World terroir. This cuvée, produced in 2020, likely features classic Bordeaux varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, possibly accented by some Shiraz or Pinotage. The grapes are handpicked from vineyards nestled on alluvial soils with significant granite and sandstone influence, which imparts a marked freshness and refined structure to the wine. Vinification typically sees gentle extraction and careful ageing – often part in French oak – to preserve purity of fruit and underpin nuanced complexity.

Franschhoek is one of South Africa’s oldest and most prestigious wine-making areas, located within the greater Coastal Region just east of Cape Town. Its Mediterranean climate is defined by warm summers moderated by oceanic breezes, while cool nights help maintain an excellent acid balance in the grapes. The historical patchwork of soils – fertile alluvium, decomposed granite and sandy loam – fosters expressive, well-structured reds. Franschhoek’s wine history traces back to French Huguenots who brought centuries-old viticultural traditions to the Cape, and today it remains a region where innovation thrives alongside deep respect for heritage.

Cuvée Innocence’s generous fruit and polished tannins make it a versatile partner at the table. Classic pairings include grilled lamb cutlets, chargrilled ribeye or slow-braised beef short ribs, where the wine’s finesse lifts the dish’s richness. For a South African touch, consider accompanying it with bobotie (spiced minced meat) or springbok carpaccio. Mature cheeses such as aged cheddar or Comté also highlight the wine’s elegant profile.

For optimal enjoyment, serve Philippe Colin Cuvée Innocence 2020 at 16-18°C after letting it breathe for an hour. This temperature accentuates the wine’s aromatic complexity while maintaining its vibrant freshness. Enjoy within the next 5 to 7 years for a balance of fruit exuberance and developing tertiary notes.