After months of bare vines and quiet winter landscapes, September brings a noticeable change to the vineyards. The days become warmer, the landscape starts turning green again and seemingly overnight, tiny new shoots begin appearing along the vines. Spring might look gentle from the outside, but in the vineyard, it's the beginning of one of the busiest and most important periods of the year.

We spend plenty of time thinking about which wine to pour, but considerably less time thinking about what we're pouring it into. Walk into any homeware shop and you'll find glasses designed specifically for red wine, white wine, sparkling wine, dessert wine, and sometimes even individual grape varieties. It can all feel a little excessive. So, does the shape of your wine glass actually make a difference?

Every year on Pinot Noir Day, wine lovers around the world celebrate one of the world's most famous red wine grapes. But here in South Africa, Pinot Noir has another particularly important claim to fame. Without Pinot Noir, there would be no Pinotage. While South Africa certainly produces Pinot Noir of its own, it is Pinotage that has become synonymous with our country's winemaking identity. And the story of how we got there begins with an experiment in Stellenbosch more than

Few things bring people together quite like a beautifully prepared cheeseboard. Whether you're hosting friends, planning a relaxed weekend lunch, or simply treating yourself to a quiet evening in, a thoughtfully curated cheeseboard offers something for everyone. The secret to a memorable cheeseboard isn't having the most expensive ingredients. It's about balancing flavours, textures, and, of course, choosing the right wine.

Brunch has a way of bringing people together. Whether it's a slow Sunday morning with family or a leisurely gathering with friends, few dishes feel as indulgent as Eggs Benedict. Rich, comforting, and beautifully balanced, this classic brunch favourite is elevated with a silky hollandaise infused with BC's Chardonnay.

When the temperatures drop, many wine lovers instinctively reach for a bold red. While there's no denying the appeal of a rich Cabernet Sauvignon or a warming Pinotage beside the fire, winter doesn't mean it's time to put your favourite white wines away. In fact, the right white wine can be just as comforting and satisfying during the colder months when paired with seasonal dishes and served correctly. Here's how to make the most of white wines this winter with a little help

There are few things more South African than gathering around a braai with family and friends. The crackle of the fire, the smell of sizzling meat, and the laughter that carries late into the evening are all part of the experience. Choosing the right wine can elevate every bite, bringing out flavours you might never have noticed otherwise.

Whether you're hosting an intimate dinner for four or celebrating with a larger group, a little planning goes a long way. Here are a few simple tips for creating a dinner party your guests will remember, with the perfect BC Wines to accompany every course.

When the temperatures drop, few things are as comforting as a hearty slow-cooked stew. This recipe combines tender beef, seasonal vegetables, and BC Cabernet Sauvignon to create a rich, flavourful dish perfect for cosy winter evenings.

As the days grow shorter and the evenings become cooler, there is something particularly comforting about ending a meal with a warm dessert and a well-paired glass of wine. While wine is often associated with savoury dishes, the right pairing can elevate a dessert from delicious to unforgettable.

There are few things more comforting than a slow-cooked potjie shared around the fire, especially as the evenings begin to cool. Rich, hearty, and deeply flavourful, this recipe uses BC's Pinotage to add depth and warmth to a classic South African favourite. The subtly fruity character and smoky undertones of the Pinotage work beautifully with slow-cooked beef, creating a dish that feels rustic, comforting, and perfect for sharing!

As the seasons change and the evenings begin to cool, our food, routines, and even the atmosphere around us naturally shift. Meals become richer, gatherings move indoors, and comfort takes centre stage. It is during this time that red wines truly come into their own.

Cooking with wine is one of the simplest ways to add depth and character to a dish, and Cabernet Sauvignon is particularly well suited to it. With its bold structure and layered notes of dark berries, coffee, and chocolate, it brings richness and balance to both savoury and slightly sweet applications.

Harvest may be one of the most visible and energetic times of the year on a wine farm, but it is only the beginning of the journey. Once the grapes leave the vineyard and arrive at the cellar, a new phase begins, one that is quieter, more controlled, and just as important in shaping the final wine. This is where the transformation truly starts.

As harvest season begins to wind down, there is a noticeable shift across the cellar and vineyards. The pace softens, the days feel shorter, and the golden light of late summer slowly gives way to the deeper tones of autumn. It is a time of quiet transition. While the busiest weeks of picking may be coming to an end, the work is far from over. In many ways, this phase is where the foundation of the vintage is truly set.

As summer slowly gives way to autumn, there is a quiet shift in the air. The days are still warm and golden, but the evenings arrive with a gentle coolness that invites slower meals and richer flavours. It is the kind of season where the table lingers a little longer and the wine in your glass feels especially welcome. BC’s Pinotage Reserve is perfectly suited to this moment. With its depth, structure, and expressive character, it pairs beautifully with dishes that bring w

Cooking with wine is one of the easiest ways to bring depth and balance to a dish, and BC Blanc de Blanc is a perfect partner in the kitchen. Its bright, crisp character helps lift the flavours of savoury ingredients while adding a gentle richness to sauces. This creamy white wine chicken with mushrooms is comforting without being heavy, making it ideal for relaxed dinners, family meals, or occasions where good food and good company come together.

Each year, International Mulled Wine Day offers the perfect excuse to revisit one of the world’s oldest and most comforting wine traditions. While often associated with European winter markets and festive gatherings, mulled wine has a history that stretches back centuries and across continents.

BC's White Grape Juice makes an excellent base for mocktails thanks to its natural sweetness and fresh, crisp profile. These three recipes are simple to prepare, alcohol free, and perfect for warm days, family gatherings, or occasions where something refreshing is needed.

Whether you are hosting a relaxed weekend gathering or planning something a little more special, here are a few tried-and-tested red wine and braai pairings to help you get the most out of both.