A vibrant collection of South African wines available at Sondela Cellars in Charleston.
Charleston is experiencing a vibrant shift in its wine culture with the arrival of Sondela Cellars, a new venture by Warren Griffiths. By showcasing exquisite South African wines, Griffiths is enabling locals to explore unique varieties sourced from the Western Cape. This endeavor not only highlights the diverse offerings from the South African wine industry, valued at $3.6 billion, but also aims to connect the community through remarkable tasting experiences and enhance appreciation for this rich tradition. Discover the captivating journey and flavors awaiting at Sondela Cellars.
Charleston is buzzing with excitement as a little gem known as Sondela Cellars is redefining the city’s wine scene. Set up by the enthusiastic Warren Griffiths, this delightful new business has a mission: to bring the rich flavors of South African wines right into our glasses. Spurred on by the unexpected overflow of these wines during the pandemic, Griffiths saw a golden opportunity to showcase the hidden treasures from the Western Cape.
The South African wine industry is a heavyweight in the global market, boasting a value of a whopping $3.6 billion. Despite this impressive figure, the sector faced monumental challenges during the pandemic, including tough restrictions like alcohol sales bans and export halts. These obstacles proved devastating for many, but Griffiths viewed it as a chance to bring South Africa’s diverse wines to American shores.
At Sondela Cellars, wine lovers can dive into an enticing selection of 18 to 20 wines, all carefully sourced from various South African wineries. Each bottle transports you straight to the sun-drenched vineyards where some unforgettable wines are crafted. Among the selections are the Fishwives Club Chardonnay, offering a delightful blend of melon notes with a creamy, buttery finish at 12.7% alcohol, and the tantalizing Harry Hartman Wine Co. Pinot Noir, which is light, dry, and sports that charming pale ruby red hue. Sounds heavenly, doesn’t it?
The wines at Sondela Cellars hail from famous areas like Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, Elgin, and Paarl, each known for its unique terroir that shapes the character of the wines produced. South African winemakers craft a delightful medley of varieties, including Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Shiraz, and the acclaimed native Pinotage. You can even find some fantastic moderately priced Cabernet Sauvignon, enhancing the country’s reputation for offering incredible value!
Let’s not forget the historical spice of South African wines! The journey started all the way back in 1659 when the first Cape grapes were harvested. This rich tradition has continued to flourish, especially since the end of apartheid. A new generation of innovative and diverse winemakers has emerged, creating a vibrant wine culture that captivates enthusiasts worldwide.
While it’s true that about 60% of South African wine exports come from bulk producers, Griffiths is on a mission to highlight the unique 40% that seamlessly reflect the artistry involved in small-batch production. Unfortunately, the distribution network isn’t necessarily built for mass distribution, which presents a hurdle for Griffiths and other small producers. But he remains optimistic and encourages Charleston’s wine drinkers to explore and embrace the unique offerings from South Africa.
As Charleston dives into the world of South African wines, there’s a sense of camaraderie and celebration. The owner of Sondela Cellars is keen on bringing people together through remarkable wine experiences reflective of South Africa’s heritage. The future looks bright for this vibrant new venture in Charleston, and who knows? It might just lead to a greater appreciation for the incredible journey of South African wines.
So, the next time you find yourself in Charleston, why not take a stroll into Sondela Cellars? A world of captivating flavors and rich stories awaits you!
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