(For my complete report on South African wines, click here)

Last year’s most exciting trip to wine country, for me, was to South Africa — even over Bordeaux. True, the wines weren’t as monumental, but the scenery, the dark-humored South Africans, and the great prices really changed the way I feel about wine. I have a greater respect, for example, for well-made wine without attitude. Plus, South African wine revitalized my love of syrah.

For a kick-off visit to Jordan Winery and a sample of their crack value shiraz, click here:

Jordan Winery
Stellenbosch Kloof Road, Vlottenburg 7604
US importer: Vinnovative Imports

This smallish, family estate is shooting for modern-styled wines that are both well made (vines must be nine years or older before Jordan will use the fruit) and easy to drink. They’ve recently completed a modern winery with pretty tasting room; the garden looks out over rolling hills back toward Stellenbosch.

2005 Sauvignon Blanc ($7)
Bright, with grassy notes. Great vibrant mouthfeel, grapefruit, well-delineated flavors.

2004 Chardonnay ($10)
Although our host described this as “lightly oaked,” I thought its rich peach and apple flavors weren’t balanced with its woody aspect. Eighty-six percent of this cuvée spent time in a mixture of new and old barrels.

2003 Chameleon ($7.50)
I can’t recommend this cabernet sauvignon/merlot blend; to me, it was light and herbaceous.

2003 Syrah ($10)
A smooth, slightly creamy mouthfeel is backed up with good black fruit and smoky tastes. A solid effort for a ten-spot!

For “Into African Wine,”, click here.
For “I Saw a Wine Farm in Africa,” click here.
For “Beyond the Valley of Pinotage,” click here.