Summer’s here, and with that comes barbeques, patio parties, and casual evening soirees with friends and family. Looking for a quality bottle to bring to the party? Look no further! Award-winning wine writer Natalie MacLean shares her top picks with us each week!

Wine of the Week for August 8, 2013

The Grinder Pinotage

Swartland, South Africa

Loaded with toasty oak, coffee, black pepper, dark spices, mocha and savoury dark fruit aromas. There’s a seductive juiciness on the palate with full-bodied weight. Black plum and anise on the smoky finish. Highly recommended. Perfect for hearty meat dishes, grilled meats, smoked pork, pasta with meat sauce, black bean soup.

Price: $13.95 

Score: 90/100

Alcohol: 14%

Sweetness: Dry

Drink: 2013‐2016

LCBO:  269076

Natalie MacLean is the Canadian author of Unquenchable: A Tipsy Search for the World’s Best Bargain Wines. Check out more of her wine picks and food pairings at www.nataliemaclean.com.