# Umbala (2024)

- **Producer:** Oenoforos AB
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Pinotage
- **Region:** Western Cape, South Africa
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €22
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** dark cherry, blueberry, blackberry, blackcurrant, vanilla, chocolate

## About this wine

Umbala 2024 is a red wine from the Western Cape region of South Africa, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, and Pinotage. The wine is produced by Nordic Sea Winery, a subsidiary of Oenoforos AB, a Swedish wine importer founded in 1989. Oenoforos AB focuses on offering wines at good value and supplies both the Swedish state-owned liquor store, Systembolaget, and the on-trade market. The Umbala 2024 is presented in a 3-liter bag-in-box format, a choice that emphasizes convenience and accessibility for consumers. The wine's origin in the Western Cape leverages the region's established reputation for producing quality red varietals.

## Interesting facts

- Produced in Sweden by a company that imports South African wine.
- Features a blend of classic South African grapes: Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, and Pinotage.
- Available in a 3-liter bag-in-box for extended freshness and ease of use.
- Part of Systembolaget's permanent assortment, ensuring consistent availability.

## Food pairing

The wine's full body and prominent fruit notes, complemented by hints of oak and spice, make it a versatile partner for richer dishes. The tannins in the blend can effectively cut through the fat of grilled meats like lamb and beef, while the fruitiness can balance the savory elements of slow-cooked dishes. Vegetarian options with earthy flavors, like lentils and mushrooms, also find a good complement in the wine's depth.

## Wine making process

Umbala 2024 is a red wine produced by blending Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, and Pinotage grapes. The wine originates from the Western Cape region of South Africa. The production process, managed by Nordic Sea Winery in Sweden, likely involves fermentation techniques suitable for these varietals to achieve a balanced profile. The tasting notes suggest a period of aging, potentially involving oak, to develop complexity. The wine is presented in a 3-liter bag-in-box format, a packaging choice that prioritizes convenience and extended freshness.