Horse Mountain is a winery in Paarl producing well priced mid range wines. The owner, Craig Lardener, who looks like he played 2nd row for the Springboks, named this Bordeaux blend, his flagship wine, after his daughter. Craig subsequently sold the winery in late 2010, so as yet we don’t know what quality 2011 onwards will bring.

What’s it like?

Horse Mountain Michelle 2006 is a blend of 64% Cab Sauv, 29% Merlot and 7% Cab Franc. Strong savoury flavours, big and rich with a long dry finish, particularly suited to accompany the South African braai, or barbeque in this country! John Platter awarded the Horse Mountain Michelle 2006 his second highest rating of 4.5 stars. I tried a bottle of the 2009 recently too, which is already drinking superbly.

How much? Where from?

Horse Mountain Michelle 2006 is available from a few good independent retailers for around £13 but the best deal is www.goodwineonline.co.uk at £12 who also have the 2009 at the same price. There is some 2004 available in the UK but this is a little old now and I’d recommend the 06 or 09 instead.