Le Chant Rouge 2020

Why is there a rooster crowing on the label of a South African wine?

The answer lies in a partnership that brings together two countries with a long, intertwined winemaking history. Le Chant du Coq, meaning "The Song of the Rooster," celebrates the connection between French winemaking tradition and South Africa's increasingly impressive wine industry. The rooster, a familiar national symbol of France, represents the French influence behind this distinctly South African project.

Le Chant is a collaboration between the French Oddo family and a team of South African winegrowers and winemakers, including Willie Joubert, Schalk-Willem Joubert, and Petri Venter. Their vineyards are situated in the Polkadraai Hills of Stellenbosch, a region where cooling maritime influences help preserve freshness in grapes grown under the South African sun.

Rather than simply recreate a traditional Bordeaux blend, the team takes a more adventurous approach. Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon provide the foundation, while varieties such as Syrah and Sangiovese introduce additional spice, freshness, and savory complexity.

The wine brings together ripe black cherry and plum flavors with notes of crushed berries, dried herbs, and subtle graphite. There is a pleasing contrast between its generous fruit and its more restrained, earthy character. Fine tannins provide structure without making the wine feel heavy, while fresh acidity keeps the finish lively.

This is the sort of red that makes an interesting alternative to Bordeaux. It has the familiar structure and savory complexity of a Cabernet-based blend, but with the warmth and personality of Stellenbosch.

Serve it with grilled flank steak, rosemary-roasted lamb, or a rich mushroom ragù over pappardelle. A little time in the glass should help bring out its more savory nuances.

And that rooster on the label? It's a reminder that some of the most interesting wines emerge when different traditions meet.